Team building and communication: “Sim Wars” game-based learning and peer-to-peer mentoring

Abstract

Background: Poor communication and teamwork during perioperative emergencies have been linked with untoward outcomes. Healthcare professionals are required to work in teams, yet they rarely train in teams; however, many graduate healthcare programs recognize simulation-based education's value. Students’ participation in simulated scenarios with game-based learning prepares them for challenges encountered professionally. Methods: This pilot study examined the impact simulation has on individual and team dynamics utilizing a “Sim Wars”—a peer-to-peer simulation competition where teams of doctoral nurse anesthesia students competed in simulated obstetric and pediatric anesthesia scenarios. Results: Sixty-six doctoral nurse anesthesia students participated and completed all pre- and postsimulation surveys. After each round of the competition, a total of 106 completed surveys were collected. Presimulation outcomes indicated positive correlations toward learning, team-building, and peer-to-peer learning. Postsimulation, students found the experience helpful in communication, and interprofessional team interactions in preparation for clinical practice. Conclusion: Students were satisfied with game-based learning and essential to professional preparation. Simulation experiences with game-based learning enhanced interprofessional communication and team-building skills. Further research in game-based learning in simulation-based education is recommended.