A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on extended reality-based pediatric nursing simulation program development

PURPOSE: This systematic literature review and meta-analysis explored extended reality (XR)-based pediatric nursing simulation programs and analyzed their effectiveness. METHODS: A literature search was conducted between May 1 and 30, 2022 in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and CINAHL. The search period was from 2000 to 2022. In total, 6,095 articles were reviewed according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 14 articles were selected for the final content analysis and 10 for the meta-analysis. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and the Comprehensive Meta- Analysis program. RESULTS: XR-based pediatric nursing simulation programs have increased since 2019. Studies using virtual reality with manikins or high-fidelity simulators were the most common, with six studies. The total effect size was statistically significant at 0.84 (95% confidence interval=0.50-1.19, z=4.82, p<.001). CONCLUSION: Based on the findings, we suggest developing standardized guidelines for the operation of virtual pediatric nursing simulation education and practice. Simultaneously, the application of more sophisticated research designs for effect measurement and the combined applications of various virtual simulation methods are needed to validate the most effective simulation methodology.