The impact of clinical simulation on the development of advanced practice skills

This article considers the findings of a qualitative research study into the impact of simulation on the development of advanced clinical practitioners' skills and knowledge.

To explore simulated learning through the eyes of trainee and trained advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) and consider its potential in supporting their development.

This qualitative research study explored the experiences of trained and trainee ACP volunteers undertaking a structured simulated event provided by a local acute hospital trust simulation team. A questionnaire (n=10) and a focus group (n=4) acted as the data gathering tools.

Although simulation can be daunting for the participants, the overwhelming outcome was positive. Participants stated that they gained confidence and suggested that simulation offered a safe place to practise the challenging scenarios that occur in the clinical environment. Additionally, they emphasised that simulation provided a place to network and receive constructive feedback that was non-judgemental, and which helped them to develop clinical knowledge and appreciate their limitations.

Simulation is a valuable addition to the education and development of ACPs. It should be considered for inclusion within the educational curriculum as a supplement to theoretical knowledge and to the structured clinical supervision provided within the clinical environment.