A Strategy for Role Assignment in Simulation Using Collaborative Cognition

J Nurs Educ. 2018 Nov 1;57(11):694-697. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20181022-13.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present an innovative education strategy for role assignment in simulation that encourages collaboration and prioritization, while highlighting critical thinking.

Background: Traditional methods of role assignment in simulation distribute nursing duties among multiple participants, assigning students as a primary or a secondary nurse or dictating specific tasks such as medication administration, assessment, or documentation. This allows students to divide and conquer, rather than prioritize and delegate.

Method: In the Two-Heads-Are-Better-Than-One strategy, two students assume the role of one nurse and are instructed to move and act as if they are one person.

Results: The Two-Heads-Are-Better-Than-One strategy requires the two students functioning as one nurse to collaborate, discuss differences of opinion, and formulate a plan of care for the simulated patient.

Conclusion: This innovative approach to role assignment in simulation provides clinical faculty with a unique perspective for assessing critical thinking and clinical reasoning. [J Nurs Educ. 2018;57(11):694-697.].

MeSH terms

  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / methods*
  • Humans
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Peer Group
  • Students, Nursing / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Thinking*