The important role of simulation in sedation

Purpose of review This article reviews the development of simulation-based training strategies to educate sedation providers. Recent findings Medical simulation has been utilized to train and evaluate providers in numerous domains related to sedation. Sedation providers come to the patient with a wide range of clinical training and experience and simulation can serve as a platform for achieving a baseline skill level and for periodic retraining. Although widely accepted by participants in simulation training, data demonstrating simulation's efficacy in improving sedation-related clinical outcomes are lacking. Summary Simulation provides an opportunity for sedation providers to develop deliberative practice, to consider rare or challenging clinical conditions, and to benefit from directed feedback, in a manner that does not put patients in harm's way.