Tech-Know-Logy: Using Multimodal Simulation Strategies to Bring Data Management and Patient Care Technologies to Life

The purpose of this project was to thread patient care technology and informatics competency into immersive patient care learning experiences for undergraduate nursing. By integrating the academic overlay of a simulated electronic health record system with other simulation modalities, the University of Utah established comprehensive and dynamic learning experiences. These scenarios were introduced into first-semester courses of a baccalaureate nursing program. This multimodal method of simulation delivery resulted in immersive experiences providing meaningful context for students to learn while applying information management competencies to patient care. Many challenges remain in preparing nursing graduates to enter the workforce with the necessary informatics and patient care technology competencies. The process described here provides educators with a valuable pedagogical alternative for teaching these skills regardless of the electronic health record system employed at their academic institution.