Real-Time Debriefing After OB Emergencies: A Review of Current Nursing Practices

Background: Real-time or clinical debriefing is considered an effective tool for promoting perinatal team dynamics, communication, patient safety, and perinatal outcomes. Several studies have investigated the outcomes of clinical debriefing in the obstetric (OB) setting. Purpose: We reviewed nursing debriefing practices after OB emergencies to examine the gap between principles and actual practices. This review focused on two key areas: (a) the effectiveness of OB debriefing in terms of communication, teamwork, and perinatal outcomes; and (b) the examination of current practices related to the standardization of debriefing. Study Design and Methods: This is a focused review of peer-reviewed research studies, posters, presentations, and abstracts. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature databases were searched using the search terms "obstetric emergencies," "real-time debriefing," "debriefing," and "perinatal emergencies." The initial yield was 307 records. Results: This review identified three key themes in the literature on real-time debriefing: the tools and requirements for effective debriefing; the impact on safety culture, communication, and team dynamics; and observations of distress and emotional healing. Conclusion and Clinical Implications: Standardizing best practices for debriefing after OB emergencies is essential. Developing a standardized tool or form is necessary to enable OB nurses to lead debriefing efforts confidently and competently after emergencies. Educating and empowering nurses to lead debriefing sessions following critical OB events can enhance teamwork, improve patient safety, and increase team members' satisfaction. Consistent use of debriefings is one way to promote desired professional behaviors while improving safety culture. A standardized debriefing tool for OB emergencies is crucial for quality improvement.