Debriefing Techniques Utilized in Medical Simulation

Abstract

Simulation-based education (SBE), when used under the right conditions, correlates with significant effects on knowledge, skills, and behaviors and moderate effects on patient-related outcomes. Post-simulation debriefing is 1 of the most effective components of SBE and the cornerstone of the learning experience in the medical simulation setting.[1][2] Debriefing is the intentional discussion following the simulation experience that allows participants to understand their actions clearly and thought processes to promote learning outcomes and enhance future clinical performance.[2][3] It allows faculty and learners to reexamine the simulated case experience, share their mental model, and foster the reasoning behind their clinical judgment. Kolb’s experiential learning cycle involves a concrete experience—simulation, followed by observation and reflection on that experience through debriefing.[4][5] Experiential learning theory suggests that this leads to forming abstract concepts and generalizations, which are then used to test the hypothesis in future situations, resulting in new concrete experiences. The reflective process of debriefing is a cornerstone of the experiential learning theory.[1][4]