Students and simulation facilitators' experiences and perceptions of a distraction and interruption simulation: a...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Simulation

Background:

• Distractions and interruptions are primary causes of medication errors.
• Current nursing education often lacks training on managing these interruptions in clinical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel simulation designed to prepare nursing students for distractions during medication preparation.
• To explore student and facilitator perceptions of the simulation's effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was employed, incorporating surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• 112 third-year nursing students and 5 facilitators participated in the study.
• Data collection occurred between June and December 2020.

Main Results:

• The simulation, including prebriefing, high-fidelity scenarios, and debriefing, fostered psychological safety and skill development.
• Students demonstrated an understanding of the speed versus safety balance and developed new strategies for managing interruptions.
• The simulation effectively prepared students to implement strategies for managing distractions and interruptions.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is effective for developing essential skills in managing distractions and interruptions during medication preparation.
• This approach enhances nursing students' readiness for clinical practice and contributes to improved patient safety.