Advance Care Planning Simulation-Based Learning for Nurses: Mixed Methods Pilot Study

• Published in: Clinical simulation in nursing 2019-04, Vol.29, p.1-8
• Main Authors: Pereira-Salgado, Amanda, Philpot, Steve, Schlieff, Jo, O'Driscoll, Lisa, Mills, Amber
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: advance care planning; communication training; end of life; health care; nursing; simulation
• ISSN: 1876-1399; 1876-1402
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecns.2018.11.006

Simulation-based learning (SBL) is beneficial for training health care professionals in advance care planning (ACP) or end-of-life communication. ACP SBL intervention with actors was developed for outpatient nurses (n = 13) based on Jeffries' simulation design framework. Quasi-experimental design examined pre-post differences in knowledge, self-confidence, and behaviour. Qualitative description explored benefits, improvements, and impact on clinical practice. SBL elicited a statistically significant change in participants' self-confidence in initiating (z = -2.859, p = .004) and revisiting (z = −2.565, p = .010) ACP conversations. Qualitative findings supported increased knowledge, self-confidence, and understanding with some reported implementation into clinical practice. With appropriate training, nurses may be better engaged in ACP. •Development and pilot of advance care planning simulation-based learning intervention.•Thirteen outpatient nurses participated in intervention with trained actors.•Increased self-confidence in initiating and revisiting advance care planning after training.