Integrated simulations to build teamwork, safety culture and efficient clinical services: A case study

Background: Simulation methodology and frameworks were used to build teamwork and a safety culture, and to establish efficient clinical services within the procedure centre of a newly constructed, stand-alone, fully digital greenfield hospital. Rapid ramp up of surgical services required significant recruitment, and onboarding necessitated training of nursing and other perioperative support staff. Methods: A two-day, immersive integrated simulation activity was carried out with the interprofessional onboarding staff participating in their usual roles. During the simulation, staff had the opportunity to apply newly acquired skills and knowledge to all stages of a patient's clinical journey through the procedure centre, including use of the integrated electronic medical record (ieMR) and non-technicaL skills. Results: Department processes and workflows were rehearsed in real time before the procedure centre opened to patients. A safe environment was created for staff with formal prebriefing and debriefing delivered at the commencement and conclusion of the simulation activity. Discussion: The integrated simulations reduced uncertainty and streamlined service delivery for staff who participated in the training, with simulations also used to foster interprofessional team training for clinical workflows. The simulation process allowed interprofessional teams (e.g. nurses, support staff, surgeons) to interact with one another prior to the facility opening.