Simulation training in brain death determination

Skill in the determination of brain death is traditionally acquired during training in an apprenticeship model. Brain death is not frequently determined, and thus exposure to the techniques used is marginal. Brain death is therefore ideally suited for competency-based education models such as simulation. Simulation can ensure that all trainees have direct experience in brain death determination irrespective of their specialty, program design, or institutional protocol. In this review, the authors discuss the advantages and barriers to simulation and how to develop simulation scenarios for instruction in the determination of brain death. Future research should focus on validation of brain death simulation methods and assessment tools as well as the impact of simulation on performance in clinical practice.