Simulation-Based Training Promotes Higher Levels of Cognitive Control in Acute and Unforeseen Situations

• Published in: Clinical simulation in nursing 2019-09, Vol.34, p.6-15
• Main Authors: Pedersen, Ingunn, Lee Solevåg, Anne, Solberg, Marianne Trygg
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: ICU; intensive care unit; learning; patient safety; simulation-based team training
• ISSN: 1876-1399; 1876-1402
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecns.2019.05.003

Simulation-based training has been recommended to improve patient safety. This study summarizes intensive care nurses' perceptions of what facilitates learning during simulation-based team training in preparation for acute and unforeseen situations. This study is a literature review with thematic analysis. Seven qualitative articles were included. Synthesis with a cognitive perspective revealed six key factors for intensive care nurses' learning: (a) relational coordination, (b) analytical cognition in task management, (c) situational awareness, (d) self-awareness, (e) cognitive control, and (f) high-quality communication within the team. The main factor that contributes to learning in simulation-based training is that nurses have cognitive control when time allows the use of analytical thinking. •In simulation-based team training, nurses learned how to interact and collaborate, and about one's own and others' tasks.•The foundation to learn in simulation-based team training is that nurses have cognitive control by using time and analytical thinking.•Success factors to perceive learning during simulation-based team training is to use analytical mode of cognition in task management with a situation awareness.