Aim To explore whether additional teaching and simulated learning of one-hour duration could improve the blood pressure measurement skills of nursing students.

Method A post-test experimental method was used to measure the outcome of additional, targeted simulated learning of blood pressure monitoring beyond normal curriculum content in adult branch nursing students in module one of a three-year nursing programme.

Results One hour of additional teaching and simulated learning improved the ability of nursing students to measure blood pressure accurately, with the data revealing a statistical difference between experimental and control groups in the systolic and diastolic accuracy of blood pressure monitoring.

Conclusion In a changing practice environment with fewer opportunities to develop clinical skills under supervision, there is a need for nurse educators and mentors to reconsider and research further methods used for blood pressure monitoring and other skills teaching using simulation for effective learning and skills acquisition.