Interdisciplinary Disaster Drill Simulation: Laying the Groundwork for Further Research

Abstract

AIM The aim of this study was to examine the effect of using serial simulations with progression through the nursing curriculum. BACKGROUND Simulation provides a way to learn without fear of failure and increase critical thinking and clinical decision‐making skills. Learning in an interdisciplinary simulation provides a greater understanding of teamwork and communication skills. METHOD The NLN/Jeffries Simulation Framework was used in an interactive disaster drill with role‐playing patient actors and manikins. In a debriefing session, nursing and radiology students co‐presented scenarios. RESULTS Students displayed critical thinking and clinical decision‐making skills. They reported an increase in selfconfidence in caring for patients during a disaster, an increase in empathy, and learning by observing others. CONCLUSION This pilot study revealed that an interdisciplinary disaster drill simulation experience was a positive learning experience for both nursing and radiology students.