Simulation and Structured Debriefing to Teach Breaking Bad News in Pediatric Care

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Published Oct 11, 2026
https://doi.org/10.62438/tunismed.v104i09.7147
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Vol. 104 No. 09 (2026): Tunis Med Sept 2026

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Abir Boussetta
Pediatrics Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia. Tunis Faculty of Medicine, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8034-2355
Taha Sayari
Pediatrics Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia. Tunis Faculty of Medicine, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
Tahar Gargah
Pediatrics Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia. Tunis Faculty of Medicine, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia

Abstract

Introduction: Breaking bad news is an essential medical skill and is particularly challenging in pediatrics. Simulation combined with structured debriefing is an educational strategy for developing communication skills.
Aim : To describe an educational intervention based on role-play and structured debriefing, and to explore its perceived impact on medical students’ communication skills when breaking the news of end-stage chronic kidney disease in pediatric patients.
Methods: A single-center descriptive study was conducted during the 2025–2026 academic year among 42 second-year medical students(DCEM2). Students participated in a structured teaching session comprising a theoretical introduction, role-play simulation, and structured
debriefing. Evaluation was based on a satisfaction questionnaire, pre/post-intervention self-assessment, qualitative analysis of students’ comments, and a structured observational assessment of the performance of the three students who played the role of the physician, using a
13-domain competency grid scored from 0 to 2.
Results: All 42 students participated in the entire educational intervention and completed the questionnaires, correspond ..( abstract truncated at 250 words).

Keywords:

breaking bad news, pediatrics, medical education, simulation, debriefing, communication

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