Communication Adaption in Challenging Simulations for Student Nurse Midwives

• That sequential simulations replicate the rapid pace and changing circumstances common in health care disciplines.
• That nurses and midwives must be skilled in discourse management to ensure a therapeutic use of language.
• Simulated challenges enables professional development in a safe environment.

BackgroundNurses and midwives must be able to adapt their behavior and language to meet the health care needs of patients and their families in diverse and at times difficult circumstances.MethodsThis study of fourth-year dual-degree nurse midwives used Communication Accommodation Theory strategies to examine their use of language and discourse when managing a sequential simulation of neonatal resuscitation and bereavement support.ResultsThe results showed that many of the students were slow to respond to the changing needs of the patient and family and at times used ineffectual and disengaging language.ConclusionClinical simulation is a safe and effective method for nurses and midwives to experience and practice the use of language and discourse in challenging circumstances.