How often should pediatric resuscitation simulations and debriefings be conducted to maintain proficiency?

• A. Monthly simulations with debriefing.
• B. Regular simulations, typically at least every 6-12 months, with structured debriefing.
• C. Only once a year.
• D. Daily simulations.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining pediatric resuscitation proficiency relies on regular, structured simulation with debriefing. Skills and team performance in pediatric resuscitation tend to decay without ongoing practice, and the combination of realistic scenarios with guided feedback reinforces correct steps, pacing, and communication under stress. The recommended interval is at least every 6–12 months, with a structured debriefing after each session to identify gaps, reinforce best practices, and set concrete improvement actions. While more frequent practice can be useful in some programs, it isn’t required as the baseline standard and may demand substantial resources; practicing only once a year is typically not enough to sustain readiness. Debriefing is essential because it translates the practice experience into actionable learning, helping teams improve both technical skills and non-technical behaviors like leadership and teamwork.