A simulation-based curriculum to address relational crises in medicine

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Communication Skills Training
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• A recognized need exists for improved training in challenging healthcare communication tasks.
• Delivering bad news to patients and families is a critical but often difficult skill for healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simulation-based curriculum to enhance healthcare professionals' skills in communicating difficult news, termed relational crises.
• To improve participants' preparedness and self-perceived competence in handling sensitive patient and family interactions.

Main Methods:

• A review of existing simulation curricula informed the development of a unique program.
• Key features included a learner-focused needs assessment, standardized patient training, and 360-degree evaluations with written feedback.
• The curriculum was implemented in three phases with pediatric residents, nurses, and a chaplain.

Main Results:

• Participants rated scenarios as realistic (4.7/5) and beneficial for practice and preparedness (4.75/5 and 4.18/5).
• Statistically significant improvements were observed in self-reported skills (2.42/5 to 3.23/5, P < .001) and preparedness (2.91/5 to 3.72/5, P < .001).

Conclusions:

• A simulation-based curriculum incorporating learner needs, standardized patients, and comprehensive feedback effectively improved skills.
• The program demonstrated a statistically significant impact on participants' self-perceived ability to communicate difficult news in pediatric settings.