Real patients as co-debriefers in simulation-based education: An exploratory study

This thesis explores and describes the experiences and perspectives of three different roles within a patient-centred, healthcare simulation-based education session for the continuing professional development of new graduate nurses. The experiences examined are those of the session's co-debriefers, who include a mix of patient family partners and clinical educators, and the learners, who are new graduate nurses. The study uses mixed methods but primarily takes the form of a basic qualitative descriptive study and meets the requirements of patient-oriented research. Participants included 44 new graduate nurses, six clinical educators, and two patient family partners. Survey and interview analysis are developed around three main themes: Findings specific to simulation and co-debriefing, Beliefs surrounding patient- and family-centred care and the inclusion of patient family partners, and Relationships. Implications for practice and future research are recommended.