Background: Simulation is a crucial component in the training of healthcare professionals, offering a safe environment for practical learning without posing risks to patients. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effect of simulation with a standardized patient on the acquisition and retention of knowledge, as well as on the self-efficacy of nursing students. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design was conducted with 120 nursing students, who were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group (60) received training through simulation with a standardized patient, supplemented by a lecture-based course. The control group (60) received only the same lecture-based course. A pre-test was conducted to assess students’ baseline knowledge and self-efficacy before any intervention. Student performance was then assessed with a post-test immediately after the training to measure knowledge acquisition and self-efficacy and a post-test three months after the intervention to measure long-term knowledge retention. Results: The results showed a statistically significant difference in mean scores between the intervention and control groups in terms of knowledge acquisition (14.92 vs. 13.32; p < 0.001; d = 0.99), self-efficacy (33.02 vs. 31.05; p < 0.001; d = 1.03) and knowledge retention three months after training (12.4 vs. 10.6; p < 0.001; d = 0.94). Conclusions: The results of this study confirmed the effectiveness of simulation in knowledge acquisition and retention, as well as in the self-efficacy of nursing students. These findings support the integration of this method into training programs to strengthen the skills of future healthcare professionals.

Background: The use of psychoactive substances is a growing global public health concern because of its high prevalence and associated risks of morbidity and mortality. In the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO), this issue is particularly pressing among medical students, as it can impact their academic performance, mental health and future professional behaviour.Aim: This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to determine the prevalence and patterns of psychoactive substance use among medical students in the EMRO region.Setting: Studies conducted in the EMRO region were included in the analysis.Method: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science, identifying eligible studies. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled prevalence rates, and meta-regression was performed to assess factors influencing prevalence variation.Results: Ten studies were included in the study. The pooled prevalence of alcohol consumption among medical students was 9.52% (95% confidence interval [CI]: [4.82–17.93]), which decreased to 5.92% (95% CI: [4.59–7.60]) after removing outliers (I2 = 81.3%). Meta-regression indicated that studies with sample sizes above 500 reported lower prevalence than smaller studies (β = –1.55, 95% CI: [–2.89; –0.21]). The pooled prevalence of illicit drug use was 9.89% (95% CI: [4.67–19.75]) and 7.78% (95% CI: [3.71–15.58]) after outlier removal.Conclusion: Substance use among medical students in the EMRO region remains a significant concern.Contribution: This study highlights the urgent need for preventive strategies to raise awareness and promote healthier behaviours among medical students.