OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation-based online education program in enhancing skills, knowledge, and confidence related to proactive epidemiological investigation (PEI) among public health nursing students in Japan. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial with pretest-posttest assessments was conducted among 50 students (n = 26 intervention; n = 24 control) in Japan. The intervention group completed a pretest, the simulation, and a posttest. The control group took the posttest first and later received the simulation. Outcome measures included PEI skill attainment, knowledge acquisition, satisfaction, and self-confidence, all assessed via self-reported questionnaires. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in skills, knowledge, and overall learning outcomes related to PEI. They also demonstrated an enhanced understanding of key areas, including COVID-19 risk factors and PEI methods, along with significantly higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence in learning. CONCLUSIONS: Simulation-based online education can enhance skills, knowledge, and confidence related to PEI among public health nursing students. This approach aligns with international standards and provides a scalable solution for strengthening pandemic preparedness in public health nursing education, although limited by self-reported outcomes and the lack of long-term follow-up. TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN000050480.
Suzuki et al. (Fri,) studied this question.