Pandemic Crisis: Simulation Contingency Plans

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the typical delivery of nursing education. Multifactorial issues related to the pandemic and clinical placements have forced nurse educators to employ innovative strategies for content delivery. METHODS: This article is an accounting of a simulation team response to the move to all remote or virtual simulated learning experiences over a two-week period and lessons learned on how to move forward with simulated learning contingency plans. RESULTS: Learning outcomes were achieved via the delivery of online commercial and faculty made experiences to simulate clinical practice. Simple and easy to use guides assisted both students and faculty for a positive experience. CONCLUSION: Creating a detailed formal contingency plan for emergencies is essential for nursing programs. Additionally, the pandemic highlighted the importance of continuing faculty development and education in online, virtual, and simulation pedagogy. Finally, it is recommended that schools of nursing implement formal policies for replacement of clinical hours with simulation.