Establishing and Maintaining Multicenter Studies in Healthcare Simulation Research

Abstract

Multicenter research studies are a robust research tool that—if well-executed—offer a number of benefits over single center studies, including increased sample size, greater generalizability of findings, and shared resources. However, a successful multicenter research study takes significant preparation and execution strategies, many of which have unique considerations in simulation-based research. In this chapter, we offer a framework for designing and executing multicenter simulation-based studies: (a) pre-planning phase (defining the question, conducting pilot work, assembling the team); (b) planning phase (developing protocols, identifying and recruiting collaborators, executing paperwork, disseminating protocols, training sites to comply with protocols); (c) study execution (recruitment, enrollment, quality assurance, compliance); (d) study maintenance (communication, maintenance, consistency); and, (e) data analysis and dissemination (abstracts, social media, manuscripts). This chapter serves as a guide to conducting multicenter, simulation-based research studies with a focus on quantitative research questions.