Simulation: Pre-briefing Preparation, Clinical Judgment and Reflection. What is the Connection?

Abstract

Objectives : Assess efficacy of pre-briefing preparatory materials handed out prior to simulation lab and explore the connection between simulation, clinical judgment and reflective process. Methods: Triangulated evaluation study, utilizing Survey Monkey for three survey instrument data collection, designed to assess the efficacy of preparatory materials for undergraduate junior and senior nursing students and nurse educators while exploring the connection with clinical judgment and reflection. This study was conducted in the U.S.A. Results: Pre-briefing preparatory material for both students and instructors provided essential and adequate information for an effective and enhanced simulation learning experience. Students felt their ability to grasp the experience; understand the simulation situation; provide effective nursing actions; and reflect upon their experience was enhanced with the utilization of the pre-briefing preparatory material. Instructors felt more confident and prepared after reading the preparatory material. Conclusions: Pre-briefing preparatory material provides students with information necessary to allow them to fully engage during the simulation experience, while decreasing anxiety and promoting critical thinking, clinical reasoning, reflective practice and confidence. Providing instructors with pre-briefing preparatory material enhances their overall ability to effectively teach at a higher caliber while promoting professionalism and accuracy in patient care.