Simulation educators in clinical work: the manager's perspective

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Medical Education
• Simulation in Healthcare

Background:

• Limited understanding exists regarding healthcare managers' perceptions of simulation educators' contributions.
• Clinically active simulation educators play a crucial role in bridging theory and practice within healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore healthcare managers' views on the significance of simulation educators within their organizations.
• To understand the perceived impact of simulation educators on clinical work and organizational dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare managers.
• Inductive thematic analysis was employed to interpret managers' perceptions of simulation educators' influence.

Main Results:

• Simulation educators were valued as conduits of evidence-based knowledge and partners in educational leadership.
• Key benefits included fostering a reflective climate, enhancing communication, and improving teamwork efficacy.
• Factors such as local tradition, economics, logistics, and staffing could negatively influence simulation educators' work.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare managers acknowledged the personal and unit-level value of simulation educators, prioritizing local contexts.
• Simulation training is recognized for professional development, though pedagogical competence was not emphasized by managers.
• The study offers novel insights into how simulation educators impact clinical practice as integrated team members.