Debriefing in Simulation
A very important and valuable aspect of simulation in nursing is debriefing. “Debriefing helps students reflect and apply information learned in the simulation learning experience to clinical practice” (National League of Nursing, 2011). It allows the student the opportunity to reflect on the situation, their actions and what was learned. The goal of debriefing is to improve future performance of the student in lab, clinical or simulation.
In the Phoenix College Simulation Center, debriefing will generally be done at the end of the scenario. This reflection is best done without the stress of the simulation going on around and more learning can occur. There may, however, be instances when the debriefing may occur in the middle of the simulation. In this case, the simulation will be halted momentarily and then resumed.
It is vital that everyone participate in the debriefing that occurs following the simulation scenario. The session should not be dominated by one person and everyone should contribute equally. This participation is encouraged since everyone in the debriefing session has signed the Confidentiality Pledge.
In the Phoenix College Simulation Center, debriefing will generally be done at the end of the scenario. This reflection is best done without the stress of the simulation going on around and more learning can occur. There may, however, be instances when the debriefing may occur in the middle of the simulation. In this case, the simulation will be halted momentarily and then resumed.
It is vital that everyone participate in the debriefing that occurs following the simulation scenario. The session should not be dominated by one person and everyone should contribute equally. This participation is encouraged since everyone in the debriefing session has signed the Confidentiality Pledge.
Phoenix College • 1202 West Thomas Road • Phoenix, Arizona 85013 • 602-285-7800
Phoenix College and the Maricopa Community Colleges are EEO/AA institutions.