Simulation-based training program effect on pediatric nurses' knowledge and performance regarding heel-prick during newborn blood screening test

Background One of the best ways to impart important skills to trainees is through simulation-based training, which is more reliable than the conventional clinical examination method. It is used in pediatric nursing training to allow nurses to practice and improve their clinical and conversational skills during an actual child encounter. A heel-prick is a complex psychomotor task that requires skill and knowledge from the pediatric nurse performing the procedure while applying for the National Newborn Screening Program. Aim This study aimed to assess the impact of simulation-based training on pediatric nurses' knowledge and performance regarding the heel-prick technique used during newborn blood screening tests in select hospitals in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Methods This study utilized an experimental pre-test and post-test design. The G*Power Program.sup.® Version 3.1.9.4 was employed to determine the sample size to fulfil the study's objectives. The sample consisted of 50 nurses recruited from the Maternity & Children Hospital Bisha, Al-Namas General Hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Pediatric Assiut University Hospital in Egypt; they were randomly divided into two groups of 25 nurses, intervention and control. The sample size was calculated assuming [alpha] level of 0.05, a [beta] level of 0.20, and a desired power of 80%. The study was conducted from June 1st to August 30th, 2023. Two data collection instruments were used: a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist for the heel-prick technique in newborn bloodspot screening sample collection. Before the training intervention, a pre-test assessing knowledge and performance was administered. Intervention and control groups received two hours of instruction every 5 days. The researcher utilized PowerPoint presentations, videos, and interactive learning session intervention to deliver the instructional content to increase nurses' knowledge and also employed mannequins for a newborn blood spot test simulator to train participants on performance. A post-test 1 was administered immediately after the training sessions. Additionally, post-test 2 was conducted 20 days after the study and followed up after 40 days of intervention (post-test 3). Results The study participants ranged in age from 25 to 30 years, with the majority being female. A statistically significant difference was observed in the knowledge and performance of pediatric nurses following simulation-based training. The major