Virtual reality training prepares future nurses

SALISBURY, Md. — Virtual reality headsets aren’t just for gaming anymore. At Wor-Wic Community College, nursing students are entering virtual hospital rooms and practicing how to respond to high-pressure situations—all from the classroom.

Wor-Wic introduced VR into its nursing program in December 2024. Since then, the technology has helped students at all stages of the two-year program become more familiar with clinical settings.

“For our entry-level students, we typically start with basic patient assessment. But as we move on to our second-year or more advanced students, we give them emergent situations—stuff that really requires a lot of decision-making and quick thinking,” said Kari Abubakker, clinical and laboratory coordinator.

Instructors say the simulations help prepare students for the real clinical experience they get later in the program.

“They love it. I think the students really enjoy the experience and the opportunity to get hands-on clinical experience in a safe environment,” Abubakker said.

Students appreciate the low-stakes environment.

“It makes you feel like you’re in a more controlled setting before going out into the field. To be able to simulate real life definitely helps,” said student Seth Taymon.

Taymon and his fellow students used the virtual reality headsets for the first time this week.

“I think it just gives you experience in dealing with a patient when it’s not life or death. You’re not risking giving the patient too many meds and actually harming someone else’s life,” said student Sadie Lee.

“I say all the time that practical experience is probably the most helpful experience you could get,” said student Joseph Mandelson.