Traditional Instruction Versus Virtual Reality Simulation: A Comparative Study of Phlebotomy Training among Nursing Students in Kuwait

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study compared differences in phlebotomy performance on a live client, between a control group taught through the traditional method and an experimental group using virtual reality simulation. The study showed both groups had performed successfully, using the following metrics: number of reinsertions, pain factor, hematoma status, duration of tourniquet application, time to complete the procedure, and successful completion of procedure. Utilizing t-test in comparing the control and experimental groups, no performance metric was found to be significant. Total time to complete the procedure for both groups had the lowest p value, but was of no significance. Both methods for phlebotomy training were found to be equally effective. Nurse educators are challenged  to recognize the advantages and limitations of both methods to pave their way in an enhanced quality phlebotomy program.

Keywords: Traditional method, Virtual reality simulation, Phlebotomy, Performance metrics