The Effect of the Virtual Escape Room Method on Pediatric Drug Administration Knowledge, Self-Efficacy, Clinical Comfort, and Anxiety in Nursing Students: A Randomized Controlled Study

Children are particularly vulnerable to injuries resulting from medication errors due to the severity of the illness, the need for high-risk drugs with a narrow therapeutic range, and the frequent use of intravenous infusions. Despite recent advances in pharmacological research in the pediatric population, the issue of availability of medications suitable for children has not yet been resolved. Therefore, in the pediatric group, it is necessary to calculate the correct dosage of medications, prepare them with appropriate methods, and dilute them with suitable diluents. The literature indicates that dosage calculation errors are the most common medication errors in neonatal and pediatric patients. It is unclear whether nursing students are adequately prepared to provide pharmaceutical care in practice. Nursing students and new nursing graduates often lack the competence to administer medications safely. Therefore, training should be planned to enhance students' competencies and knowledge levels. The inclusion of newer methods in educational techniques has become essential as technology and social media increasingly engage nursing students. Today's nursing students need alternative, innovative ways to be involved in the learning process. Among these methods, gaming is used in nursing education to support the development of critical thinking and practical skills in students. Game-based learning has the potential to engage students and enhance learning, offering numerous advantages alongside innovation and excitement. In light of these advantages, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of a virtual escape room application on nursing students' knowledge level, self-efficacy, clinical comfort, and anxiety in pediatric medication management.