Exploring the use of escape rooms in nursing: a comprehensive scoping review

Abstract

Aim: This review aims to map and analyze the various practical uses of escape rooms in nursing, both in the education of students and the ongoing practice of nursing professionals, highlighting existing gaps that may guide future research in this field. Background: Escape rooms challenge players to solve puzzles and complete tasks within a set time frame and are being used in the training of healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing. Design: A scoping review Methods: A comprehensive scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Searches were conducted across multiple databases, including Medline, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Academic Search Complete, MedicLatina, Teacher Reference Center, Scielo and Cochrane, searching for articles in Spanish, English, or Portuguese from inception until June 2024. Results: The review included 72 studies published between 2018 and 2024, predominantly from the USA, revealing a prevalent use of escape rooms in the initial training of nursing students. The most common themes included medical-surgical and emergency situations. Studies indicate significant outcomes in participant satisfaction, knowledge, teamwork, engagement and motivation, development of specific skills and improvement of clinical judgment. Conclusions: Escape rooms offer significant potential to enrich nursing education. However, studies with greater methodological rigor are needed to definitively conclude their efficacy. The integration of these innovative resources must be adequately planned to ensure their educational purpose.