Debriefing and Palliative Care Simulation

Background: Palliative simulation is a beneficial bridge between theory and practice; however, it can be emotionally laden. Often overlooked during a debrief session of a palliative simulation is ensuring that participants have the skills to process the feelings they may experience. Method: The purpose of this mixed-methods concurrent triangulation study was to understand the perceived value and usefulness of debriefing in palliative simulation process feelings and emotions. Results: The simulation modality affects the intensity of feelings. A debriefer who is skilled in both debriefing simulation and coping with emotionally stressful situations allowed students to feel prepared to cope with their own feelings about palliative care. Having other students talk about their feelings in debriefing helped students to normalize their feelings. Conclusion: The debriefing in palliative-based simulations requires additional considerations regarding modality and the skill set of the debriefer to adequately assist students to process feelings and emotions.