Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Accurate dosage calculations (DCs) are critical for patient safety, as medication errors contribute to approximately 7,000-9,000 preventable deaths annually. Nearly 30% of nursing students exhibit weakness in foundational mathematical skills, and a significant confidence gap exists: 70% feel confident in mathematical abilities, yet only 45% feel confident in clinical application, necessitating innovative educational interventions.
Purpose: The purpose of this project was to implement and evaluate a scenario-based virtual escape room intervention to enhance undergraduate nursing students' confidence in DCs.
Methods: Grounded in Kolb’s experiential learning theory, this online asynchronous intervention engaged students through concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. A convenience sample of undergraduate nursing students completed the virtual escape room and case study activities. Student confidence and satisfaction were measured using the National League of Nursing’s (NLN) validated Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale (SCLS) immediately post-intervention.
Results: This project found that participants were satisfied with the scenario-based virtual escape room learning activity. They also reported improved self-confidence in both performing DCs and applying this knowledge to a new activity or clinical setting.
Conclusions: This project addressed a patient safety issue related to medication administration errors which have resulted in patient morbidity and mortality. Findings inform nursing educators seeking innovative, accessible strategies to enhance mathematical confidence and improve medication safety outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Cuevas, Jennifer A., "Evaluating the Effectiveness of Scenario-Based Virtual Escape Rooms to Improve Student Confidence in Dosage Calculations" (2026). Theses. 66.
https://roar.una.edu/theses/66
