The Clinical Judgment Debriefing Structure: Integrating the Clinical Judgement Measurement Model into debriefing

Abstract

The transformation of nursing education in the United States, driven by the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), demands a focus on clinical judgment. However, a gap exists in the literature regarding debriefing structures that center on clinical judgment and integrate the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM). This paper introduces the Clinical Judgment Debriefing Structure (CJDS) that was designed to incorporate the CJMM into debriefing to support the development of clinical judgment and enhance NGN preparedness. The CJDS provides clinical judgment practice using reflective questions and tasks by emphasizing each element in Layer 3 of the CJMM. Implementation involves faculty inputting simulation content into the CJDS by preparing answers to the standardized reflection questions and tasks. The CJDS streamlines faculty preparation and ensures standardization of each debriefing session. Presented at the 2023 International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL) conference, the CJDS received positive feedback, indicating its practicality and applicability in simulation practices. Findings from initial testing of the CJDS using a qualitative/quantitative design, demonstrated increased knowledge and confidence in clinical judgment. While measuring clinical judgment remains challenging, the CJDS stands as a unique tool for centering debriefing on clinical judgment and guiding students through Layer 3 of the CJMM, ultimately contributing to safer nursing practice.