Nursing program secures $10,000 for simulation technology and staffing improvements

The California Board of Registered Nursing's Education Licensing Committee convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in nursing education, particularly in simulation technology and staffing challenges.

A key highlight of the meeting was the allocation of $10,000 in grant funding aimed at enhancing simulation scenarios for nursing students. The committee plans to either develop new scenarios with the help of a simulation technician or purchase pre-approved scenarios from regulated agencies. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve compliance with simulation activities, which currently lack specific regulations.

Additionally, the committee announced that full-time faculty members will receive training through NASSCAL to ensure they meet compliance standards in simulation practices. This training is expected to enhance the quality of education provided to nursing students.

The meeting also addressed staffing issues within the nursing program. Two full-time faculty positions—one in medical-surgical nursing and another in mental health—are currently open for applications, with deadlines approaching on May 24 and May 3, respectively. Furthermore, the committee is in the process of interviewing candidates for three adjunct faculty positions to bolster the teaching staff.

In conclusion, the committee's efforts to improve simulation technology and address staffing needs reflect a commitment to enhancing nursing education in California. The next steps include finalizing faculty hires and implementing the new simulation scenarios to better prepare students for their future roles in healthcare.