Structured debriefing in nursing simulation: students’ perceptions

Background and objective: Debriefing is a strategy that allows participants to explore, analyze and synthesize their thinking processes, emotional status and other aspects in a simulated experience with a view to improving their performance in real-life situations. The aim of this study was to analyze the students’ perceptions of structured debriefing. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with a sample of 22 final-year students of an undergraduate nursing degree. A voluntary, anonymous and confidential questionnaire was used. Content was analyzed based on Bardin’s methodology. Results: Five categories emerged from content analysis: concept, attributes, cognitive impact, psychosocial impact, and affective impact. These categories were grouped into two dimensions: ‘Perceptions of Structured Debriefing’ and ‘Impact of Structured Debriefing on the Students’. Several suggestions emerged, such as the continuity of use and application to other contexts. Conclusions: Students perceived structured debriefing as an interactive method which allows them to consolidate and systemize their knowledge, reflect individually and collectively on the activities, and structure their ideas. They also mentioned that it enabled them to be more comfortable to ask questions and establish a closer relationship with their colleagues, facilitating communication and improving their skills.