“STEPS”: A Simulation Tool to Enhance Psychological Safety

Abstract

Background

Creating and maintaining a psychologically safe and welcoming environment is an essential element in simulation-based teaching. The purpose of this project was to describe a novel tool the authors developed to visually enhance psychological safety. Using constructs related to psychological safety, the tool was designed and named “Simulation Tool to Enhance Psychological Safety” (STEPS).

Methods

STEPS was designed by a core team of simulation education specialists and then evaluated by a convenience sample of prelicensure (n = 5) and advanced practice (n = 3) nursing simulation educator experts. Using open-ended responses, thes reviewers gave feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Results

Findings revealed that STEPS was positively evaluated as a visual aid to promote psychological safety. Reviewers offered suggestions for improving design features such as making it more inclusive of other disciplines and adding inspirational quotes. The reviewers unanimously agreed that STEPS would be a successful adjunct for promoting psychological safety in simulation.

Conclusions

STEPS is an innovative visual aid to promote a psychologically safe learning environment. We plan to use the tool in simulations across nursing programs.