Exploring preparation practices of nursing and midwifery educators for in situ simulation-based education: A qualitative study in a large healthcare service

Aim: This study aimed to explore nursing and midwifery clinical educators’ preparation practices related to in situ simulation-based education, at a tertiary health service in Australia. 

Background: Simulation-based education is routinely used in healthcare education and training. A key mechanism to optimise simulation-based education is learner preparation. While diverse pre-simulation preparation approaches are described in the literature, these are predominantly focused on activities that are undertaken in either university and/or skills centre contexts. In contrast, the learner preparation practices for simulation-based education that is delivered insitu in healthcare facilities by clinical nurse and midwifery educators are underexplored. 

Design: This study used an exploratory qualitative design. 

Methods: Participants were recruited using purposive sampling from a potential study group of thirty. Twelve individuals from the nursing and midwifery education group met selection criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Each individual participated in a semi-structured interview. Interview data were then transcribed and analysed using qualitative descriptive methods. 

Results: Data analysis resulted in the development of four themes related to the preparation of participants for insitu simulation-based education sessions. Each theme informs the choices of clinical nurse/midwifery educators’ preparation practices: 1) responsivity to workplace and clinical priorities; 2) clinical educator objectives; 3) preparedness for learning and clinical practice; and 4) evolving educational expertise. 

Conclusion: This study explored the preparation practices of nurse and midwifery clinical educators engaged in the delivery of insitu simulation-based education. Findings indicate a depth of experiences and a willingness to share practice insights, suggesting that insitu simulation-based education is an integral part of the in service repertoire and a key component of departmental education strategies, designed to support practice and hone skills required to deliver quality patient care.