Purpose: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a simulation-based nursing education program for respiratory emergencies in critically ill, extremely low birth weight infants (ELBWIs). Methods: A single-arm quasi-experimental study was conducted with 32 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses. The program was developed systematically using the ADDIE model, incorporating needs assessment, real-case scenario development, and pilot testing. Data were collected before and after the intervention and were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, as well as a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Scheffé post-hoc tests. Results: The results showed statistically significant improvements in participants’ problemsolving ability (t = -3.49, p = .001), clinical performance confidence (t = -4.64, p < .001), and overall clinical performance competency (t = -13.79, p < .001) following the training. The clinical relevance and feasibility of the program were supported by pilot testing and positive evaluations of the practicality and educational usefulness of the simulation scenarios. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the simulation-based program was effective in enhancing NICU nurses’ clinical competence in managing respiratory emergencies in ELBWIs and can be used as a practical alternative to traditional on-the-job training.