Incorporating Simulation Into Your Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle

Abstract

Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles are nearly universal within various quality improvement (QI) methodologies as a way of testing change prior to implementation. Simulation in health care has traditionally been used to improve teaching, enhance learning, and assess performance; however, it can also be powerful when used in the realm of QI work. Simulation is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into the different phases of a PDSA cycle. Investigators often encounter situations in which a test of change in the real clinical environment may not be ideal; however, simulation is not considered because many practitioners are not familiar with its use. This article reviews the basics of PDSA cycles and provides examples of how simulation can be used for testing in each phase. Included are clear indications to help practitioners decide when simulation is appropriate to use and how to apply it to a variety of different QI projects. [Pediatr Ann. 2021;50(1):e25-e31.].