Training Student Nurses on Recognition and Reporting of Child Maltreatment: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

ABSTRACT Nursing students lack the knowledge and skills for detecting and reporting cases of child maltreatment. Educating students on best practices for responding to cases of child maltreatment is complex, yet needed. Learning through simulation gives students the opportunity to develop critical thinking and enhance their decision‐making skills with no risk of causing harm to victims who are already vulnerable, including children with disabilities. In this pilot study, nursing students ( N = 72) were randomized to participate in live simulations with actors ( n = 36) or to complete case studies with similar content ( n = 36). Surveys were administered pre‐educational and post‐educational interventions. Both groups of students had a significant improvement in their comfort and confidence levels in detecting signs of supervisory neglect and signs of physical abuse, as well as in having the challenging conversations with parents/guardians of suspected victims, with no difference in change between groups. This study highlights the potential for educational interventions as an important first step in improving future nurses' response to child maltreatment, with further research needed on the optimal mode of delivery. Findings may help nurses provide comprehensive care to stop the cycle of child maltreatment.