Using Simulation to Prepare Nurse Practitioner Students to Deliver Poor Prognostic Information to Patients and Families

Presented by: Dr. Leslie Beth (LB) Sossoman, DNP, ACNP-BC, CV-RN, CPHQ, CHSE, and Dr. Amy Winiger, DNP, ACNP-BC, FACC, CHSE

Recorded On: Monday, June 22nd at 11:00 am - 12:00 pm EST

Description: Nurse practitioner (NP) students across specialties frequently have limited opportunities during clinical training to lead conversations that involve delivering poor prognostic information to patients and families. These conversations may occur in both inpatient and outpatient settings and require advanced communication skills, emotional intelligence, and clinical judgment. Due to time constraints, clinical workflow demands, and the sensitive nature of these discussions, NP students may observe these interactions but rarely have the opportunity to actively participate in them by leading the conversation. As a result, some NP graduates report feeling underprepared to conduct difficult conversations related to prognosis, disease progression, or end-of-life considerations. Simulation-based education provides a structured and psychologically safe learning environment in which learners can practice delivering complex or emotionally difficult information while receiving guided feedback and reflection.

CNE: 1.0