Enhancing ICU-OR Handoff Communication Through Simulation-Based Education in Nurse Anesthesiology Training
TL;DR
Simulation-based handoff training effectively enhanced student confidence in communication, clinical decision-making, and team collaboration, preparing students for safe care transitions and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Abstract
Background: Effective handoff communication during the transition of critically ill patients between the intensive care unit (ICU) and operating room is essential for patient safety, yet formal training in standardized handoff protocols remains limited in nurse anesthesiology education. Methods: This project evaluated a simulation-based learning intervention integrating a structured handoff communication tool to prepare nurse anesthesia students for high-risk care transitions. Sixteen second-year doctoral nurse anesthesia students participated in a high-fidelity simulation involving the transfer of a critically ill patient from the operating room to the ICU. The simulation incorporated prebriefing, a scenario using a standardized handoff tool, and structured debriefing. Student perceptions were assessed using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M). Results: Fifteen students completed the evaluation, with 94% strongly agreeing they felt empowered to make clinical decisions and had opportunities to practice decision-making skills. High confidence was reported in prioritizing care (94%), communicating with healthcare teams (94%), and providing safety interventions (94%). Qualitative feedback revealed overwhelmingly positive perceptions, with students recommending earlier curriculum placement. Conclusions: Simulation-based handoff training effectively enhanced student confidence in communication, clinical decision-making, and team collaboration. This approach bridges the gap between didactic instruction and clinical application, preparing students for safe care transitions and interdisciplinary teamwork.