A review of the literature: the use of interactive puppet simulation in nursing education and children's healthcare

The use of puppets in health care is emerging as a mode of simulation that combines elements of engaging with the child through play whilst at the same time providing education. This review examines the impact when nurses use play therapy or puppets as a simulation modality in nursing education and in the clinical paediatric nursing environment. Electronic search was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and PsycINFO data bases, between 1980 and January 2015 with the combinations of play therapy; puppetry; nursing education; nursing; simulation; health professionals and puppets. Twelve articles were identified that highlight the use of puppet simulation in the education of nursing students and children in the healthcare environment. Puppet modelling and puppet simulation is predominantly adopted in the areas of health education and specifically diabetes education. Identified gaps in the use of puppet simulation in nursing, nurse education and puppet simulation as a three-way communication process; thus identifying the need for further research on puppet simulation and its application and benefits in nursing and nurse education.