Brain Death Determination and Communication: An Innovative Approach Using Simulation and Standardized Patients

Context: Palliative medicine clinicians in hospital settings are often involved in the care of patients dying in critical care settings, with a subset from brain death. Brain death is a complex concept, not only for families, but also for clinicians. There is wide variability in adhering to formalized guidelines for brain death determination. In addition, communication techniques regarding brain death determination are distinct from those used in shared decision-making. There is a need to obtain knowledge and practical skills in brain death determination, including examination and communication. Simulation can provide a low-stakes setting to practice the process of brain death determination and communication. Objectives: Describe a novel approach using high-fidelity simulation to teach hospice and palliative medicine fellows the practical and nuanced aspects of brain death determination and communication. Discuss the impact on fellows’ confidence and knowledge for this learning activity. Innovation/Methods: This three-hour workshop includes a didactic session followed by a single case conducted in three parts using standardized patient encounters and high-fidelity simulation with manikin. It is delivered annually, as part of the monthly core didactic conference for all hospice and palliative medicine fellows in the four fellowship programs in our region. Outcomes/Results: Pre- and post-intervention surveys were performed assessing perceived confidence and content-related knowledge, which showed significant improvement in both areas. Comments/Conclusion: Simulation is a practical and constructive method for teaching the challenging concepts and unique communication skills involved in brain death determination.