A Mixed-Methods Realist Analysis of an Interdisciplinary Simulation Intervention for Psychiatry Residents

OBJECTIVES: Simulation research in postgraduate psychiatry remains limited, with minimal studies on interdisciplinary involvement and mechanisms of change. To address these gaps, the authors implemented a mixed-methods realist analysis of an interdisciplinary simulation intervention administered to psychiatry residents. METHODS: The University of Calgary implemented a simulation intervention for psychiatry residents. Eight junior residents participated in or observed 4 scenarios and eighteen senior residents participated in or observed 8 scenarios. Scenarios lasted 15 minutes with a pre-simulation orientation and post-scenario debrief. Most scenarios involved interdisciplinary staff. Scenarios included agitated and suicidal patients; treatment-related emergencies; and challenging conversations. All residents completed pre- and post-simulation surveys reporting confidence levels. Changes in confidence were analyzed using paired t tests and differences between junior and senior residents’ confidence using ANOVA. Eleven residents participated in 2 focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed using a constant comparative model to identify contexts, mechanisms, outcomes, and the relationship between these realist categories. Key themes were extracted using generic theme analysis. RESULTS: Aggregated survey data demonstrated statistically significant improvements in self-reported confidence for 7 of 8 proposed scenarios, with variations in confidence outcomes between junior and senior residents. Four themes emerged: (1) How Simulations Facilitate Learning, (2) The Role of Pre-simulation Instructions, (3) Factors Facilitating Confidence, (4) Positive Effects of Interdisciplinary Involvement. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies possible mechanisms for residents’ self-reported improvements in learning and confidence, which may help programs tailor interventions. Furthermore, this study suggests there may be benefits to interdisciplinary simulations, with self-reported outcomes of improved collaboration and safety planning.