Table 1 Suggested timeline for development of simulation-based clinical systems testing (SbCST)

Development phase

 • Stakeholder engagement (6–8 months)

  • Identification of multidisciplinary collaborative workgroup including hospital executive leadership, departmental, and service line leaders

  • Introduce goals and objectives of SbCST

 • Needs assessment, process mapping (3–4 months)

  • Brain storming sessions and process mapping of anticipated concerns related to process, workflow, use of equipment/technology in the new space

 • Scenario development (2–3 months)

  • Simulation team works clinical leaders to design and review simulated scenarios

  • Identification of front-line staff to participate in simulation

 • Simulation preparation (3 months)

  • Collation and organization of testing day materials: rosters, pre-brief presentations, facilitator guides, debrief guides, and FMEA template

Implementation phase

 • Testing day preparation (1 week)

  • Simulation testing day walkthrough with stakeholders to review scenarios and walk through the testing space

 • SbCST testing day

  • Conduct simulation event

  • Conduct debriefings

Evaluation phase

 • SbCST testing day

  • FMEA scoring

 • Reporting and follow-up (1 day–1 month post-testing)

  • Create FMEA summary report and follow up with leaders to review what corrective actions have taken place

  • Turnaround time should support leadership implementing changes prior to patient care