Standing Strong: Simulation Training and the Emotional Resilience of Healthcare Providers During COVID-19

This qualitative study explored the development of an innovative simulation training program designed to bolster the preparedness and resilience of healthcare teams during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Focus groups with interprofessional clinicians illuminated key educational priorities, revealing a need for enhanced safety protocols, clear in communication, and targeted training to address knowledge gaps specific to the novel coronavirus. Recognizing the profound emotional toll of the pandemic, the program also emphasized cultivating compassion and fostering emotional resilience alongside the essential clinical skills. By immersing participants in realistic, evolving scenarios that were reflective of the dynamic COVID-19 landscape, the simulations offered a safe space to rehearse critical skills, practice crisis resource management, and build confidence in navigating the complexities of pandemic care. This tailored approach aimed to empower healthcare teams not only with enhanced knowledge and expertise but also with the emotional fortitude and resilience necessary to provide optimal patient care while safeguarding their own well-being throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The findings highlight the profound potential of simulation-based training to strengthen both individual and systemic resilience within healthcare systems facing the enduring strain of this global health crisis.