Implications of Subject Matter Expertise as a Requirement for Debriefing: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Introduction. Healthcare certification standards do not mention subject matter expertise. This research answers the question: Is there a difference in participant perception of simulation effectiveness between simulation facilitators and SME simulation facilitators during the debrief? Methods. Senior-level nursing students (N=120) were randomized into groups to complete one pediatric critical care simulation. Simulation-based education (SBE) was delivered across five weeks. Two experienced facilitators, one with pediatric expertise and one without, used the PEARLS method to debrief each simulation. Following each debrief, participants completed a demographic survey and a SET-M. Results were analyzed using SPSS Version 24. Results. Eighty-four students completed the survey and SET-M instrument. Independent samples t-tests showed no significant difference between facilitators based on the SET-M total scores (p=.516), or mean scores (p=.492). Debriefing-specific items also showed no difference (p=.983). Conclusion. Subject matter expertise did not change the perception of simulation effectiveness for undergraduate nursing students during a critical care scenario. While SMEs are valuable for scenario creation and coaching non-SME facilitators on key elements for guided reflection, they may not be required to facilitate the debrief. Further research in this area is needed.

Nurturing a Nursing Workforce

“…5 It has been demonstrated that an SME is not needed to conduct the role-play SBE, but collaboration is required to confirm that the overall objectives are met in the design. 19 A simulation template, such as the one outlined by the National League for Nursing, 20 serves as a structured tool for guiding discussions Authors' Tip…”

“…Consultation with a subject matter expert (SME) for content and a simulationist for pedagogy can ensure the SBE meets and achieves the desired outcomes 5. It has been demonstrated that an SME is not needed to conduct the role-play SBE, but collaboration is required to confirm that the overall objectives are met in the design 19. A simulation template, such as the one outlined by the National League for Nursing,20 serves as a structured tool for guiding discussions regarding the design and the scaffolding of simulation elements.…”

Simulation in thoracic surgery—A mini review of a vital educational tool to maximize peri-operative care and minimize complications

“…In a study conducted by NASA ( 31 ), learners' perception of the facilitators debriefing skills was the highest correlating factor to the overall perceived quality and credibility of the simulation. Similarly, a study in nursing students comparing subject matter experts to non-subject matter experts in debriefing showed no benefit to the perception of the simulation's effectiveness ( 32 ). These studies suggest the facilitators debriefing skills are more important than the level of expertise the facilitator has on the subject matter.…”