The transformation to a competency-based baccalaureate nursing curriculum is projected to bridge the gap between didactic and clinical content; however, this change requires preparation, modifications, and evaluations for nursing institutions across the United States (Welch & Smith, 2022). American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) (AACN, 2021) provides a toolkit for supporting nursing faculty transitioning to competency-based evaluations. However, these key stakeholders must be guided in utilizing simulation-based learning for competency-based evaluations (Nyein & Gregory, 2021). Simulation-based learning experiences are structured activities that resemble realistic or possible scenarios in education and practice (Keddington & Moore, 2019; Kiernan, 2018). These opportunities allow undergraduate nursing students to develop competence and confidence through deliberate practice with immediate feedback on the learner's performance through debriefing (Immonen et al., 2019; Kiernan, 2018). The simulation-based learning experience promotes psychological safety in which students feel included, safe to acquire knowledge, safe to contribute, and safe to make mistakes without consequence (Kim, Lee, & Connerton, 2020; Madireddy & Rufa, 2021).

This Delphi study aims to inform the future development of a competency-based tool – SimComp – based on The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education which will be referred to as the AACN (2021) Essentials. This tool will evaluate simulation-based learning experiences for the baccalaureate entry-level nursing student. To date, “competency-based” is generally defined as an observable performance of knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes – obtained through experiences – that can be measured and assessed [AACN, 2021; American Nurses Association (ANA), 2017; Frank et al., 2010; Fukada, 2018]. The constructed tool will guide faculty in the simulation setting to assess student competency and provide formative feedback to the undergraduate nursing student in a manner that aligns with the AACN Essentials. While competency-based assessments are available, this study is the first known study to explore the development of a tool for the simulation setting by utilizing the new AACN (2021) Essentials competency-based framework (Beauvais & Phillips, 2020; Hayden, Keegan, Kardong-Edgren, & Smiley, 2014).