Simulated Placements as Partial Replacement of Clinical Training Time: A Delphi Consensus Study
Pete Bridge, Joanne Adeoye, Christopher Edge, Vicky L. Garner, Anne‐Louise Humphreys, Sarah-Jane Ketterer, Joanne Linforth, Anthony Manning-Stanley, David Newsham, Denise Prescott, Samuel J. Pullan, Joanne Sharp
Abstract
BackgroundThere is growing interest in utilizing structured extended periods of simulation as partial replacement for clinical placement (PRCP) due to workforce demands and COVID-19 impact. This project aimed to identify the extent to which stakeholders felt that simulated placements could reduce overall clinical placement time requirement for health care students.MethodParticipants included a range of nurses and Allied Health Professionals including managers, clinicians and lecturers. A three-round Delphi study was conducted with a 75% consensus agreement target.ResultsOverall, 71 participants engaged with at least one round of the study and identified benefits of PRCP: Safety, learning from mistakes, improved preparation, and reduced placement training burden. Challenges included poor realism, logistics, time, and access to facilities.ConclusionsThe consensus opinion indicated that between 11% and 30% of clinical training time could be replaced with simulated placement. Ongoing work will need to identify profession-specific consensus opinion and guidance on the use of simulation as PRCP.Cite this article:Bridge, P., et al. (Year, Month). Simulated placements as partial replacement of clinical training time: a Delphi consensus study. Clinical Simulation in Nursing, vol(no.), eXXX-eXXX. doi: 10.1016/j.ecsn.20XX.