Free Research Playbook
The Multi-Patient Simulation Design Playbook
A Cognitive Load Theory Framework for Teaching Delegation, Prioritization & Time Management
By Dr. Teresa Gore & Dr. Elizabeth Robison
The Challenge
Why Multi-Patient Readiness Can't Wait
Clinical sites are tighter than ever
Fewer clinical placements mean students get less exposure to multi-patient environments before graduation.
New grad expectations haven't changed
Day one on the floor still means four to six patients. The gap between school and practice is widening.
Single-patient sims aren't enough
Most programs only expose students to multi-patient scenarios in the final semester -- if at all.
“Multi-patient isn't an advanced skill — it's the context in which all skills are used.”
12 Chapters
Research-Grounded Frameworks
The Foundation
The Transition Problem
Why multi-patient readiness can't wait
Cognitive Load Theory
The science behind effective sim design
The Scaffolding Model
Sit, Stand, Walk, Run progression
The Frameworks
A-B-C-D Prioritization
A shared language for clinical triage
8-Step Patient Care Cycle
What learners do when they walk on shift
Delegation: The Five Rights
When and how to delegate safely
Time-Boxing
First-hour planning template
Scenario Architecture
How to design a four-patient simulation
Implementation
Briefing & Debriefing
Setting up and closing the loop
AACN Essentials Alignment
Mapping every patient to standards
Implementation Checklist
Your step-by-step getting-started guide
Making It Scalable
How technology takes orchestration off your plate
Inside the Playbook
Ready-to-use design guide
12 structured frameworks
Actionable triage tools
Built For You
Who This Playbook Is For
Simulation Lab Directors
Build a multi-patient program that satisfies accreditors and clinical partners while staying within budget.
Sim Coordinators
Get actionable templates for scenario design, scheduling, and debriefing that reduce prep time.
Nursing Faculty
Teach delegation, prioritization, and time management using research-backed frameworks your students will actually use.
Program Leaders
Demonstrate practice-readiness outcomes with AACN-aligned multi-patient simulation experiences.
About the Authors
Written by Leading Simulation Experts
Dr. Teresa Gore
PhD, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CHSE-A, FSSH, FAAN
Her doctoral research at Auburn University examined simulation fidelity, learning objectives, and student perceived learning effectiveness—comparing simulation to traditional clinical experiences.
Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) S. Robison
EdD, RN, MSN, CNE, CHSE-A, FAADN
Nationally recognized nurse educator, simulation expert, and leader in emerging technologies. Four decades of service spanning higher education, healthcare simulation, and military leadership—dedicated to preparing the next generation of nurses.
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