Evaluating a simulation-based education initiative for registered nurses in specialist palliative care: A sequential explanatory mixed methods study

Background: Palliative care nurses often feel underprepared for the complexities of communication and emotional care. Simulation-based education is increasingly used, but its effectiveness in specialist palliative care remains underexplored. This study evaluated a simulation-based education initiative for registered nurses in this setting. Methods: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, combining survey and focus groups. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and qualitative data thematically. Results: Simulation was described as transformative, with emotional realism and reflective dialogue central to learning and skill consolidation. Participants recommended more post registration simulation, complex scenarios, and an interprofessional education approach. Conclusion: Simulation-based education can be an effective strategy for registered nurses working in specialist palliative care settings, with success underpinned by psychological safety, realism, structured debriefing, and practice relevance.