Development of an Innovative Facilitator Simulation Training for Faculty

Abstract

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are expected to treat substance use disorders (SUDs) as chronic illnesses. Academic programs are expected to provide eight hours of training to new NP students. Didactic training provides structure for treating SUDs but lacks demonstration of “hands on” care. Competencies of identifying and treating SUDs that use patient-centered, non-stigmatizing care can be achieved using simulation. An innovative facilitator training was developed to align with best practices in simulation and build facilitator confidence. Facilitator training and simulation activities can be accomplished using methods that decrease faculty workload burden while meeting student learning objectives and implementing competency-based learning.