Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions from Coursera

This 7-week course provides you with key strategies to help understand the foundation of Clinical Simulations. During each module, you will learn about 7 key components of Clinical Simulation Across the Health Professions and its' impact in your current position as a healthcare professional. Please utilize all of the Resources provided by each of the modules to support and enhance your understanding of each concept. You will learn about the following topics in this course:

Module 1: Getting Started in Clinical Simulation-the Fundamentals

Module 2: INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

Module 3: Implementing Simulation in the Curriculum

Module 4: Developing a Simulation Center

Module 5: Basics of Debriefing in Simulation

Module 6: Evaluation Methods in Simulation

Module 7: SPs in Simulation

About The George Washington University School of Nursing

Ranked among the top nursing schools by U.S. News & World Report, the George Washington University School of Nursing educates and inspires nurses to provide high-quality, compassionate person-centered health care. The school develops leaders actively engaged in health promotion, patient advocacy and healthcare innovation, and prepares exceptional nurse educators who pursue quality and advance the profession. The School of Nursing is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of people and communities locally, nationally and globally. The school values lifelong learning and its students advance nursing practice, leadership and education as they make a difference in the world.

For more in-depth simulation education, please see the GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives.

https://nursing.gwu.edu/gw-nursing-simulation-initiatives

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started in Clinical Simulation

This module will provide information on creating clinical simulations and foundational basics when a health professional educator is considering the use of simulation pedagogy into a course, program, and/or curriculum. Based on a building analogy, the learner will navigate the steps of getting started using the simulation pedagogy outlining major steps, basic fundamentals, and considerations to “get started.” In addition as an educator adopts this use of this pedagogy, major activities, concepts, a simulation theory, and research findings are discussed so the foundation of your simulation program is grounded in theory and best practices that can lead to policy implications for your simulation center.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Taught by experts in the health sciences who are recognized for their work in clinical simulations. Includes Pamela Slaven-Lee, Karen Lewis, Suzan Kardong-Edgren, Pamela R. Jeffries, Crystel Farina, Sabrina Beroz, and Kristina Thomas Dreifuerst

Develops skills in implementing clinical simulations, developing simulation centers, debriefing in simulation, evaluating simulation methods, and using standardized patients (SPs) in simulation

Provides foundational knowledge and best practices in clinical simulations that can be applied across health professions, with a focus on the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

Content is aligned with the objectives and covers key components of clinical simulation, including getting started, standards, implementation, developing a simulation center, debriefing, evaluation methods, and using SPs

Multi-modal course combining videos, readings, and discussion, providing diverse learning experiences

Requires prerequisite knowledge, indicating the course is designed for individuals with an understanding of clinical simulation

Reviews summary

Essentials of clinical simulation for health professions

According to learners, this course provides a highly valuable and practical foundation for implementing and understanding clinical simulation within health professions education. Students frequently highlight its direct relevance to their work and praise its comprehensive coverage of essential standards like the INACSL Standards of Best Practice. Specific modules, particularly those focusing on debriefing and the use of Standardized Patients (SPs), are often mentioned as particularly helpful and applicable. While providing an excellent overview and introduction, some reviewers note that it serves as a strong starting point rather than a deep dive into advanced topics, suggesting the need for further specialized training for comprehensive expertise. Overall, it is widely considered an essential resource for educators in the field.

Debriefing and SP modules especially helpful.

"The section on debriefing methods was particularly valuable and easy to follow."

"I gained so much insight from the module dedicated to Standardized Patients."

"Modules 5 and 7 provided practical strategies I could use right away."

"The content on SP development and management was very informative."

Excellent overview and introduction to simulation.

"This course gave me the foundational knowledge I needed to feel confident getting started."

"An excellent introduction to the multifaceted world of clinical simulation."

"Perfect for beginners or those looking for a structured overview of essentials."

"Provided a comprehensive, yet manageable, overview of simulation essentials."

Explains essential standards (INACSL, ASPE).

"Learning about the INACSL Standards was a game-changer for our simulation center planning."

"The module on SPs and the ASPE standards was very informative and well-structured."

"Provides a solid understanding of the foundational best practice standards in simulation."

"I now feel confident discussing and applying key simulation standards."

Content is highly applicable to professional roles.

"The content is incredibly practical and directly applicable to my work as a nurse educator."

"I found the strategies discussed here immediately useful in improving my simulation sessions."

"Great course for anyone in healthcare education looking to implement or refine simulations."

"The material is relevant to my practice and helps me understand simulation better."

May be introductory for seasoned professionals.

"As someone with some prior experience, parts felt a bit basic, but still a good refresher."

"If you're already advanced, this might be more of a review than new information."

"Good fundamentals, but doesn't delve deep into highly complex scenarios."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions with these activities:

Review INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

Show steps

Review the foundational concepts of INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation to ensure a solid understanding of the essential principles governing simulation-based education.

Show steps

Read through the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation document.
Identify the key principles and requirements outlined in each standard.

Practice Debriefing Techniques

Show steps

Debriefing is an essential part of simulation. Practice different debriefing techniques to become more effective at providing feedback to learners.

Browse courses on Debriefing

Show steps

Identify the goals of debriefing.
Review different debriefing techniques.
Practice debriefing with a partner.
Get feedback on your debriefing skills.

Participate in a Simulation-Based Case Discussion

Show steps

Engage in discussions with peers to analyze simulation cases, share insights, and enhance your understanding of clinical decision-making.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Review the provided simulation case materials.
Participate in the discussion, sharing your perspectives and analysis.

Seven other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all ten activities

Conduct Regular Debriefing Practice Sessions

Show steps

Regularly engage in debriefing practice to refine your skills, improve your facilitation techniques, and build confidence in leading debriefing sessions.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Select a short simulation scenario.
Conduct the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.

Simulate a Nursing Scenario Using SP's

Show steps

This simulation is an excellent way to apply knowledge from the course and provides a real-world experience with simulated patients. This will help refine the skills that are learned from more traditional materials, such as textbooks and online modules.

Show steps

Read the simulation scenario and identify the learning objectives.
Gather the necessary equipment and materials.
Prepare for the simulation by practicing and rehearsing.
Conduct the simulation and debrief.

Explore GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives

Show steps

Delve into the resources and initiatives offered by GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives to enhance your knowledge and skills in simulation-based education.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Visit the GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives website.
Review the available resources and materials.

Attend a Simulation Debriefing Workshop

Show steps

Participate in a dedicated workshop to develop your skills in facilitating effective debriefing sessions, a crucial aspect of simulation-based education.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.

Create a Simulation Debriefing Guide

Show steps

Develop a comprehensive guide that outlines best practices, techniques, and resources for conducting effective debriefing sessions in simulation-based education.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Research various debriefing models and techniques.
Compile a collection of resources and tools to support debriefing.
Create a step-by-step guide to facilitate debriefing sessions.

Facilitate a Simulation Debriefing Session

Show steps

Engage in peer-facilitated debriefing sessions to gain practical experience and receive feedback on your facilitation skills.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Collaborate with peers to select a simulation scenario.
Lead the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.
Seek feedback from peers on your facilitation skills.

Design and Implement a Simulation-Based Training Module

Show steps

Challenge yourself with the development and implementation of a comprehensive simulation-based training module, showcasing your ability to apply course concepts in a practical setting.

Browse courses on Simulation

Show steps

Identify a specific training need or competency to be addressed.
Design the simulation scenario and develop the necessary materials.
Conduct the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the training module.

Career center

Learners who complete Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Simulation Specialist

Simulation Specialists are responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating simulation-based training programs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the field of clinical simulation, including the latest research and best practices. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Specialists to effectively develop and deliver simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Specialist

Simulation Program Manager

Simulation Program Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of simulation-based training programs. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing a simulation center, implementing simulation in the curriculum, and evaluating simulation programs. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Program Managers to effectively lead and manage simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Program Manager

Simulation-Based Learning Consultant

Simulation-Based Learning Consultants provide guidance and support to organizations that are developing or implementing simulation-based training programs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the field of clinical simulation, including the latest research and best practices. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation-Based Learning Consultants to effectively advise organizations on the development and implementation of simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation-Based Learning Consultant

Simulation Healthcare Educator

Simulation Healthcare Educators are responsible for creating and facilitating simulation-based learning experiences for healthcare professionals. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing a simulation center, implementing simulation in the curriculum, and evaluating simulation programs. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Healthcare Educators to effectively design and deliver simulation-based learning experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Healthcare Educator

Simulation Designer

Simulation Designers are responsible for creating simulation-based learning experiences. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Designers to effectively create simulation-based learning experiences that meet the needs of learners.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Designer

Simulation Administrator

Simulation Administrators are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a simulation center. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Administrators to effectively manage a simulation center.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Administrator

Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers are responsible for designing and developing learning materials and experiences. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Instructional Designers to effectively design and develop simulation-based learning materials and experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer

Education Researcher

Education Researchers are responsible for conducting research on the effectiveness of educational programs and interventions. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Education Researchers to effectively conduct research on the effectiveness of simulation-based learning programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Education Researcher

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers are responsible for developing and implementing educational programs and curricula. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Curriculum Developers to effectively develop and implement simulation-based educational programs and curricula.

See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer

Training Specialist

Training Specialists are responsible for developing and delivering training programs for healthcare professionals. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Training Specialists to effectively develop and deliver simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Training Specialist

Nursing Faculty

Nursing Faculty are responsible for teaching and training nursing students. This course may be useful for Nursing Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nursing Faculty

Clinical Educator

Clinical Educators are responsible for teaching and training healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. This course may be useful for Clinical Educators who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Educator

Medical School Faculty

Medical School Faculty are responsible for teaching and training medical students. This course may be useful for Medical School Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical School Faculty

Physician Assistant Faculty

Physician Assistant Faculty are responsible for teaching and training physician assistant students. This course may be useful for Physician Assistant Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant Faculty

Simulation Technician

Simulation Technicians are responsible for operating and maintaining simulation equipment. This course may be useful for Simulation Technicians who want to learn more about the principles and best practices of clinical simulation. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Technician