Enhancing professional identity and professional values in mental health nursing students through simulation-based learning

Mental health nursing students often encounter challenges in aligning their clinical decision making with professional values and expected proficiencies, particularly during placements. The complexity of clinical decision making in mental health care, such as assessing patient capacity, respecting patient choice, and evaluating risks, presents unique obstacles. To address these challenges, the authors developed a series of simulation-based learning days within a 3-year BSc mental health nursing course. The simulation was designed to enhance professional identity, support the development of professional values, and improve professional conduct in line with the Nursing and Midwifery Council's Annexe A proficiencies. Feedback from students highlighted an increased proficiency in clinical decision making, a stronger sense of professional identity, and a deeper understanding of the challenges in mental health nursing.