The Effect of Simulation-Based Learning on the Clinical Competency of 2nd Year Perpetual Help College of Manila Nursing Students in Intramuscular Injection: A Quantitative Study

Abstract

Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) has been recognized as an effective strategy for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical skill in nursing education, particularly for procedures such as intramuscular (IM) injections. This quantitative correlational study examined the effect of SBL on the competency, confidence, and clinical performance of 164 second-year nursing students at Perpetual Help College of Manila. Data were collected using skills assessment checklists and questionnaires, with primary endpoints focused on competency and confidence, and secondary endpoints on clinical internship performance. Results showed a significant improvement in IM injection competency, with mean scores increasing from 70.55 pre-simulation to 85.30 post-simulation (p < .001), and students reported strong agreement that SBL enhanced their confidence, competency, and preparedness for clinical practice. Age influenced perceived clinical performance (p = .003), while performance scores were consistent across gender and section. Students also noted reduced error rates and improved accuracy due to SBL. These findings demonstrate that SBL is an effective educational intervention that promotes safe, accurate, and confident performance of IM injections and supports its continued integration into the nursing curriculum to develop practice-ready, competent nurses.