The Trinity Technique: A novel 3-step approach for debriefing multi-professional major incident simulation.

Abstract Background:Debriefing is typically conducted in clinical practice following serious or unexpected incidents. Instigating these structured team-based discussions can support responder well-being, uphold professional standards and pledge a duty-of-care. Effective debriefing can also promote reflective practice, enable clinical development and reduce the occurrence of psychological trauma. It is therefore essential that opportunities to cultivate the requisite skillset to conduct an effective debrief are incorporated into simulation-based-learning and clinical skills training. Whilst a wide variety of debriefing frameworks exist to guide educators working within this field, most are unsuitable for use in a multi-professional, major incident simulation. Methods:A novel 3-step major incident debriefing strategy was devised (named The Trinity Technique) and a proof-of-principle study was conducted over a 17-month period on a sample of 208 students studying paramedic science, adult nursing, physician associate and forensic science at University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK. The debriefing strategy comprised of (1.) a Hot Debrief, (2.) a Question and Answer session; and (3.) a Cold Debrief using a newly fashioned debriefing framework called STOCK TAKE. Participant feedback was captured on Instruction Sheets, Microsoft Teams transcribes and handwritten notes. The data was then evaluated to improve teaching and learning practices and instigate future independent research. Findings:High-levels of student and staff engagement were observed when using the Trinity Technique. Valuable insight into learner experience was gained and the novel strategy possessed a unique ability to debrief institutions as well as learners. Conclusion: The Trinity Technique demonstrates promise and was effective when applied to multi-professional major incident simulation. Independent research is now required to formally test the efficacy of this novel approach.