Featured ArticleEffects of Video-Assisted Debriefing Compared with Standard Oral Debriefing

- Stress responses and performance did not differ between debriefing groups.
- Improved performance and lower anxiety were found across sessions.
- Repeated practice, task engagement, and debriefings may be beneficial.

BackgroundVideo playback during debriefing is a frequent recommendation to develop skillful practice; however, research shows no clear benefit.MethodA randomized controlled trial was conducted to determine the effects of type of debriefing on psychophysiological stress responses and performance of nursing students in a repeated simulation after approximately two weeks.ResultsCompared with oral debriefing, video-assisted debriefing had no significant effect on the psychophysiological stress responses and performance. Across sessions, state anxiety significantly decreased and performance score improved.ConclusionReduced psychological stress and improved performance found in the repeat exposure validate the usefulness of simulation-based education to foster practice-based learning.