Within this section assessment using simulation is discussed, considering both human participation and simulated practice. There is no 'one size fits all' approach to the evidence gathering and Practice Assessment process in relation to 'sign-off' of proficiency, as all areas will differ regarding access to human participants on which to undertake clinical skills, staff who can suitably supervise students in undertaking these, and different approaches to provision of care (including differences in which clinical skills are practised) in different Trusts and settings.
Human participation is preferred, however simulated practice in addition to the evidence that can be utilised from the toolkit may be used to assess proficiency in an area where human participation is not possible.
As documented in the Standards for Student Supervision and Assessment (SSSA) 2018:
“The nursing procedures within this annexe are set out in two sections. These requirements are relevant to all fields of nursing practice although it is recognised that different care settings may require different approaches to the provision of care. It is expected that these procedures would be assessed in a student’s chosen field of practice where practicable.”
“Those procedures outlined in Annexe B, Part I: Procedures for assessing needs for person-centred care, sections 1 and 2 also apply to all registered nurses, but the level of expertise and knowledge required will vary depending on the chosen field(s) of practice. Registered nurses must therefore be able to demonstrate the ability to undertake these procedures at an appropriate level for their intended field(s) of practice.”
Therefore, utilising the toolkit can help to produce and provide evidence to assess a student in your area as denoted above.