Abstract
Background
Needlestick injuries (NSIs) pose a significant occupational threat to nursing students. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a simulation-based training (SBT) program for NSI prevention among nursing students using the Kirkpatrick model.Methods
A quasi-experimental, one-group pre-test/post-test study was conducted with 206 nursing students from a government college in Eastern India. The participants underwent a two-day blended SBT program that incorporated didactic sessions and scenario-based simulations with debriefing using Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice. Outcomes were evaluated across four Kirkpatrick levels: reaction (satisfaction), learning (knowledge and self-reported practices), behavior (observed practices), and results (NSI incidence). Data were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at one- and three-month follow-ups.Results
The mean satisfaction score was high (17.6 ± 2.8/20). Knowledge scores significantly improved from 13.6 ± 3.4 to 16.0 ± 2.9 (mean difference: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.90-2.90; p Conclusions
The SBT program was associated with improvements in knowledge, self-reported practices, attitudes, and observed behaviors; it was well accepted and accompanied by a reduction in reported NSIs. However, the lack of a control group and the single-center design limit causal inference. Incorporating SBT into nursing education appears promising for enhancing occupational safety; however, multicenter controlled trials are needed to establish causal evidence.