Developing Clinical Judgment During Transition to Practice With Rapid-Cycle Deliberate Practice Simulation

Abstract

Background: New-to-practice nurses (NPNs) make more errors than their experienced peers, affecting patient safety and contributing to sentinel events. Additionally, new nurses have a high attrition rate in their first year of practice. Simulation-based education may bridge the gap between education and practice by supporting the development of clinical judgment of NPNs. Method: With quality improvement methods, an intradisciplinary team implemented a quality improvement project to improve NPNs' clinical judgment skills. A multipatient simulation that used rapid-cycle deliberate practice gave NPNs an opportunity to refine clinical decision-making and communication skills. Results: In total, 24 NPNs participated in the pilot simulation. Pre- and postsurvey scores using the simulation effectiveness tool-modified showed self-reported improvement in clinical judgment and communication skills, among other competencies. Conclusion: Rapid-cycle deliberate practice simulation may support the development of essential nursing competencies, along with increased confidence and enhanced psychological safety among NPNs. [ J Contin Educ Nurs. 202x;5x(x):xx–xx.]