Assessing psychiatric nurses’ perception and attitude toward simulation-based training in psychiatric setting: A descriptive quantitative study using SET-M tool

Background: Simulation-Based Training (SBT) is a transformative educational training strategy in nursing, offering a safe and interactive environment to bridge theory and practice. In psychiatric care, where nurses face unpredictable scenarios such as aggression management, seizure response, and psychotropic medication administration, SBT provides structured opportunities to enhance clinical judgment, confidence, and therapeutic communication. Debriefing is recognized as the essential component of SBT, fostering reflection, psychological safety, and professional growth. 
Methods: This descriptive quantitative study evaluated psychiatric nurses’ perceptions of SBT effectiveness at Al Masarra Hospital (AMRH), Sultnate of Oman. A total of 192 registered nurses completed the adapted Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M) immediately after participating in simulation sessions covering Basic Life Support, psychiatric medication, aggression management, ambulance traning, seizure management, and medical emergencies. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. 
Results: Nurses reported overwhelmingly positive perceptions across all five SET-M domains, with highest ratings in Learning & Knowledge Acquisition (M=4.68) and Psychological Safety & Feedback Quality (M=4.68). Debriefing consistently scored above 4.6, underscoring its role in clarifying concepts, analyzing decision-making, and developing strategies for clinical improvement. No significant correlations were found between demographic variables and SET-M scores (p>0.05), confirming general applicability. 
Conclusion: Structured simulation, supported by high-quality debriefing, is perceived as an effective educational strategy for psychiatric nurses. Institutionalizing simulation as a longitudinal component of professional development can strengthen competence, confidence, and patient safety.