Ensuring pediatric patient safety is a critical priority in nursing education, particularly in the safe use of hospital side rails designed to prevent falls. However, inconsistencies in nursing students’ application of safety protocols point to gaps in competency, specifically in the domains of knowledge, psychomotor skills, and professional attitudes. This conceptual paper examines the foundations of nursing students’ competency in pediatric side rail use, drawing on Benner’s Novice to Expert Theory and a constructivist-interpretivist perspective. It organizes the discussion using the Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes (KSA) model to assess readiness for real-world clinical tasks. While students often demonstrate theoretical knowledge, practical application, and safety awareness vary widely. The paper proposes Heutagogical strategies such as high-fidelity simulation, structured clinical mentorship, reflective debriefing, and curriculum alignment with pediatric safety standards. By integrating these strategies within a self-directed, learner-centered framework, nursing programs can better equip students to deliver safe, high-quality care in pediatric settings.

Heutagogy

Pediatric patient safety

Nursing education

Side rail safety

Reflective practice