Evaluation of simulation-based intervention for implicit bias mitigation: A response to systemic racism

Background

Training health care professionals to mitigate implicit biases can reduce health inequities caused by racism. Implicit bias mitigation strategies (IBMS) have been shown to reduce biased behaviors. This study aimed to determine the impact of IBMS practice simulation on learners’ behaviors and family experience in one hospital unit.

Methods

This study used a quasi-experimental design in a large pediatric hospital. In total, 195 participants completed a simulation-based education intervention. Learners practiced IBMS with Simulated Participants. Participant perceptions were measured at four time points, and translational outcomes were collected using survey results and other outcomes.

Results

Situational judgment test results improved postintervention and at follow-up. Participants reported using IBMS skills at time points three and four. Internal and External Motivation Scale and family satisfaction scores remained unchanged. Family experience measures improved, showing decreases in security dispatch calls for perceived family escalation and in deny entries and behavioral contracts stratified by race.

Conclusions

Simulation can shift perspectives and behaviors. More research is needed on the impact of simulation-based interventions on IBMS skill development and translational outcomes.