(7) How Implementing Simulation Best Practice Refined Our Simulation Program and Reduced Learner Anxiety

Abstract : Clinical simulation is a vital component of nursing education, but it can also lead to anxiety and stress, hindering effective learning. This presentation outlines how implementing the INACSL Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice improved student experiences and reduced anxiety within our program. We will explore the effects of stress and anxiety on simulation learning and share insights from our nurse anesthesia program's integration of prebriefing and debriefing techniques that encourage learner reflection through combining Advocacy-Inquiry with Promoting Excellence and Reflective Learning in Simulation (PEARLS) and Plus-Delta methods.
In this session, we will share our journey and the data collected from learners, highlighting the high levels of anxiety they experienced during simulations prior to aligning with the INACSL standards and how our restructured prebriefing and debriefing processes have effectively alleviated this anxiety and improved learner experiences.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Clinical simulation, an essential element of nursing training, can produce anxiety and stress, impacting effective learning. We will describe the influence of stress and anxiety on simulation experiences and explore the impact of restructuring our program to align with simulation best practice on student perceptions and anxiety. We will discuss the prebriefing and debriefing techniques that helped students feel more confident and prepared for clinical practice.