NURS FPX 6109 Assessment 4 Vila Health: Implementing New Educational Technology

NURS FPX 6109 Assessment 4 Vila Health: Implementing New Educational Technology

Student Name

Capella University

NURS-FPX 6109 Integrating Technology into Nursing Education

Prof. Name:

Date

Vila Health: Implementing New Educational Technology

Welcome to our presentation, esteemed executive leaders, and team members. I am thrilled to present the strategy for adopting Virtual Reality (VR) technology in nursing education at Vila Health. This initiative, a reflection of our mission to enhance and innovate in healthcare education, is set to transform the learning experiences of our nurses and elevate patient care. We will discuss the critical steps for a successful implementation, including resource planning, training methods, and evaluation techniques. This significant advancement is a crucial milestone in our commitment to leading healthcare education and technology integration.

Planned Change: Integrating Virtual Reality in Nursing Education

Vila Health is on the cusp of a significant educational evolution with the introduction of VR technology in our nursing programs. Diverging from conventional training approaches, this innovative technology offers an engaging, three-dimensional environment for practical training. It allows nurses to refine their clinical skills in a risk-free virtual setting, replicating intricate patient scenarios and medical procedures. This move demonstrates our dedication to advanced healthcare education. It is essential to equip our nursing staff for the challenges of contemporary patient care, enhancing patient outcomes, and establishing new educational benchmarks.

Plan for Implementing Changes in Educational Technology

A structured and comprehensive plan is essential to implement changes in educational technologies at Vila Health, specifically the introduction of VR simulations in nursing education. This plan consists of several concrete steps to ensure a smooth transition and effective utilization of the new technology, including contingency measures to address potential challenges.

Step 1: Initial Preparation and Staff Engagement

The first step involves conducting informational sessions to familiarize nursing staff with VR technology. This phase is crucial for building awareness and understanding of the new system. It is also an opportunity to gather feedback and expectations from the staff, ensuring that the implementation aligns with their needs and concerns. These sessions will serve as a foundation for building a receptive environment for the upcoming technological shift (Wu et al., 2022).

Step 2: Infrastructure and Resource Setup

The second step focuses on establishing the necessary technical infrastructure for VR simulations. This includes procuring appropriate VR headsets and software tailored explicitly for nursing education. Ensuring that the hardware and software are compatible with existing systems and are user-friendly for the nursing staff is critical (Lau et al., 2023).

Step 3: Integration into the Curriculum

In the third step, collaboration with nurse educators is vital to integrate VR simulations seamlessly into the existing curriculum. This involves developing a schedule that incorporates VR sessions alongside traditional teaching methods. The aim is to create a blended learning environment that leverages the benefits of VR while maintaining the core elements of the existing educational framework (Wu et al., 2022).

Step 4: Trial Run and Feedback Collection

A pilot phase with a select group of users will be implemented in the fourth step. This trial run is essential for testing the system in a controlled environment, allowing for the identification and rectification of any technical glitches or user experience issues. Feedback collected during this phase will provide valuable insights for fine-tuning the system before a full-scale rollout (Lau et al., 2023).

Step 5: Full Implementation

Once the pilot phase is successfully concluded, the VR simulation program will be rolled out across all nursing education programs. This step includes monitoring the system’s initial performance and the users’ adaptation process. Close observation during this phase will help identify any immediate issues that need addressing (Wu et al., 2022).

Step 6: Ongoing Support and Iteration

This step involves providing continuous technical and educational support to users. It is essential to regularly update the VR content to keep pace with evolving nursing practices and educational needs. Regular training sessions and support mechanisms will be in place to assist staff in adapting to and fully utilizing the VR system (Wu et al., 2022).

Step 7: Contingency Planning

Finally, developing a comprehensive contingency plan is crucial for dealing with potential technical failures or user resistance. This plan will include a straightforward process for rapidly addressing and resolving issues, ensuring minimal disruption to the educational process. With its detailed steps and contingency measures, this plan ensures a seamless transition to the new VR-based educational technology, aligning with Vila Health’s commitment to innovation and excellence in nursing education (Lau et al., 2023).

Resource Requirements for Technology Change Implementation

A detailed and comprehensive analysis of the required resources is essential to ensure VR technology’s successful implementation in Vila Health’s nursing education. This analysis must encompass various aspects, from hardware and software to personnel and ongoing support.

Hardware and Software Requirements

Most resource allocation will be directed toward acquiring VR headsets and simulation software. This hardware and software are fundamental to the functioning of the VR training modules. The budget must account for the cost of cutting-edge VR equipment capable of delivering high-fidelity simulations, a crucial factor in the effectiveness of training (Dhar et al., 2023). Additionally, the software must be specifically tailored for nursing education, incorporating various clinical scenarios and procedures that reflect real-world nursing challenges (Jeffries, 2022).

Technical Support Team

The implementation of VR technology necessitates a proficient technical support team. This team will install, manage, and troubleshoot the VR system. Depending on the existing capabilities of the IT department at Vila Health, this might involve hiring new staff or providing specialized training to current employees. The importance of a dedicated technical support team cannot be overstated, as they ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of the VR systems (Dhar et al., 2023).

Training Resources

Developing comprehensive training resources for the nursing staff is crucial. These resources should include training manuals, online tutorials, and hands-on training sessions. The goal is to equip the nursing staff with the necessary skills and confidence to utilize VR technology in their education and practice effectively. This ongoing training must keep staff updated on new features and simulations (Jeffries, 2022).

Infrastructure Upgrades

The existing IT infrastructure may require upgrades to support the new VR technology. This could involve enhancing network capabilities, increasing storage capacity, and improving data security measures. Ensuring that the infrastructure is robust enough to handle the demands of high-end VR simulations is critical for the uninterrupted delivery of VR-based education (Dhar et al., 2023).

Ongoing Maintenance Fund

Finally, allocating funds for ongoing maintenance, software updates, and hardware replacement is essential. VR technology will require periodic updates and maintenance to remain practical and relevant like any other technology. This fund ensures that the VR systems stay up-to-date with the latest developments in VR technology and nursing education (Jeffries, 2022).

End-User Training Requirements

Understanding and addressing the end-user training requirements are crucial for successfully implementing VR technology in nursing education at Vila Health. This entails evaluating the current level of knowledge and expertise of the nursing staff regarding VR technology, setting clear performance expectations, and establishing robust support mechanisms for initial and ongoing training needs.

Current Level of Knowledge

The first step involves assessing the baseline knowledge and expertise of the nursing staff concerning the proposed VR technology changes. The staff will likely have varying degrees of familiarity with VR, ranging from novice to somewhat experienced. Understanding their current level of knowledge is essential to tailor the training program effectively. This assessment can be achieved through surveys or focus group discussions, providing insights into the staff’s comfort level with technology and any apprehensions about adopting VR in their educational process (Jeffries, 2022).

Performance Expectations

Performance expectations need to be clearly defined and communicated to the end-users. These expectations encompass acquiring specific clinical skills and improving clinical decision-making through VR simulations. The objectives should align with the overall goals of the nursing program and the practical needs of patient care. Setting these expectations will guide the training content and provide a benchmark against which to measure the effectiveness of the VR training (Siah et al., 2022).

Initial Training

Initial training is a critical component of the implementation process. It should provide a comprehensive introduction to VR technology, focusing on navigating the VR environment, interacting with simulations, and understanding safety protocols. This training should be hands-on, allowing staff to experience the VR technology directly and address any initial concerns or difficulties they might encounter. The training program should accommodate different learning styles and paces, ensuring all staff members are comfortable and competent using the VR system (Siah et al., 2022).

Ongoing Support

Regular training sessions should be conducted to ensure the continued effectiveness and relevance of the VR training. These sessions could include updates on new VR simulations, advanced training for complex scenarios, and refresher courses to reinforce previous learning. Ongoing support is crucial in maintaining high proficiency and confidence among the nursing staff in VR technology (Calandra et al., 2022).

Support Mechanisms

Finally, establishing a robust support mechanism is essential for addressing technical issues and providing educational support. A helpdesk or dedicated support team should be available to assist staff with any technical difficulties they encounter with the VR system. Additionally, a feedback system should be implemented to gather input from the staff about their experiences with the VR training. This feedback will be valuable in continuously improving the training program and ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of the nursing staff (Calandra et al., 2022).

Plan to Evaluate Technology Change Effectiveness

Formulating a comprehensive plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the VR technology implementation at Vila Health is essential to ensure that the technology meets its intended educational and clinical objectives. This evaluation plan should consist of specific, measurable criteria, enabling a valid assessment of the technology’s success and guiding future enhancements.

Evaluation Criteria

• Skill Proficiency

A primary criterion for evaluating the effectiveness of the VR training program is the improvement in clinical skills of the nursing staff. This can be assessed by comparing their skills before and after VR training. Specific metrics include the accuracy and efficiency in performing clinical procedures and the level of confidence displayed by the staff in applying these skills in real-world scenarios (Piot et al., 2021).

• User Engagement

Another critical metric is the extent of user engagement with the VR system. This includes measuring the frequency and duration of VR usage by the nursing staff. High engagement levels typically indicate that users find the technology valuable and are more likely to integrate the learnings into their clinical practice (Bumbach et al., 2022).

• Feedback and Satisfaction

Regularly conducting surveys to gather user feedback on the VR experience and the learning outcomes is crucial. Satisfaction surveys can provide insights into the perceived value of VR training, areas for improvement, and the overall user experience (Piot et al., 2021).

• Patient Care Outcomes

Monitoring changes in patient care quality and error rates is essential to evaluate the impact of VR training on clinical practice. Improved patient care outcomes and a reduction in clinical errors would be strong indicators of the VR training program’s effectiveness (Bumbach et al., 2022).

• Cost-Effectiveness

Analyzing the cost savings in training and resource utilization due to the implementation of VR technology is also essential. This includes comparing the costs of traditional training methods with the VR training program to determine if the investment is yielding financial benefits (Piot et al., 2021).

Evaluation Methods

• Data Analysis

Utilizing data analytics to review performance metrics and usage statistics is a crucial evaluation method. This includes analyzing the data collected from VR sessions to understand usage patterns, learning progress, and skill development among the nursing staff (Bumbach et al., 2022).

• Qualitative Assessments

Conducting interviews and focus groups with nursing staff and educators can provide qualitative insights into the effectiveness of the VR program. These assessments allow for an in-depth exploration of user experiences, perceptions, and suggestions for improvement (Bumbach et al., 2022).

• Patient Feedback

Incorporating patient feedback can help assess the impact of VR training on the quality of care. Patient perspectives on the care provided by nurses who have undergone VR training can offer valuable insights into the program’s effectiveness (Bumbach et al., 2022).

• Continuous Improvement

Utilizing the results from these evaluations is vital for continuous improvement. The feedback and data gathered should be used to refine and enhance the VR simulation program, ensuring it remains practical, relevant, and aligned with the evolving needs of nursing education and patient care (Piot et al., 2021).

Conclusion

In conclusion, integrating Virtual Reality (VR) technology into our nursing education programs at Vila Health marks a significant leap forward in our pursuit of excellence in healthcare training and patient care. By embracing this innovative technology, we are enhancing the learning experience of our nurses and setting a new standard in preparing our healthcare professionals for the complexities of modern patient care.

Our detailed implementation plan, encompassing thorough resource planning, tailored training programs, and comprehensive evaluation strategies, ensures that this initiative is not just a technological upgrade but a sustainable and impactful enhancement to our educational framework. As we move forward, our commitment to this technology underscores our dedication to staying at the cutting edge of healthcare education, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and reinforcing Vila Health’s position as a leader in the healthcare sector.

References

Bumbach, M. D., Culross, B. A., & Datta, S. K. (2022). Assessing the financial sustainability of high-fidelity and virtual reality simulation for nursing education. CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing, Publish Ahead of Print. https://doi.org/10.1097/cin.0000000000000916 

Calandra, D., De Lorenzis, F., Cannavò, A., & Lamberti, F. (2022). Immersive virtual reality and passive haptic interfaces to improve procedural learning in a formal training course for first responders. Virtual Reality. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10055-022-00704-9 

Dhar, E., Upadhyay, U., Huang, Y., Uddin, M., Manias, G., Kyriazis, D., Wajid, U., AlShawaf, H., & Syed Abdul, S. (2023). A scoping review to assess the effects of virtual reality in medical education and clinical care. DIGITAL HEALTH, 9, 205520762311580. https://doi.org/10.1177/20552076231158022 

Jeffries, P. (2022). Clinical simulations in nursing education: Advanced concepts, trends, and opportunities. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=KPGKEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT35&dq=VR+headsets+and+simulation+software.+VR+training+modules.+The+budget+must+account+for+the+cost+of+cutting-edge+VR+equipment++Nurse&ots=XKT6MsS2HV&sig=cQXihpLZbTPkiI-hUh2mPDqia7o 

Lau, S. T., Siah, C. J. R., Loh, W. L., Rusli, K. D. B., Schmidt, L. T., Lim, F. P., & Liaw, S. Y. (2023). Enhancing professional competency in clinical procedures using head-mounted display virtual reality – A mixed method study. Medical Education Online, 28(1), 2232134. https://doi.org/10.1080/10872981.2023.2232134 

NURS FPX 6109 Assessment 4 Vila Health: Implementing New Educational Technology

Piot, M., Dechartres, A., Attoe, C., Romeo, M., Jollant, F., Billon, G., Cross, S., Lemogne, C., Layat Burn, C., Michelet, D., Guerrier, G., Tesniere, A., Rethans, J., & Falissard, B. (2021). Effectiveness of simulation in psychiatry for nursing students, nurses and nurse practitioners: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 78(2), 332–347. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.14986 

Siah, R. C. J., Xu, P., Teh, C. L., & Kow, A. W. C. (2022). Evaluation of nursing students’ efficacy, attitude, and confidence level in a perioperative setting using virtual‐reality simulation. Nursing Forum. https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12783 

Wu, M.-L., Chao, L.-F., & Xiao, X. (2022). A pediatric seizure management virtual reality simulator for nursing students: A quasi-experimental design. Nurse Education Today, 119, 105550. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2022.105550