Aim This study aimed to explore nursing and midwifery clinical educators’ preparation practices related to in situ simulation-based education, at a tertiary health service in Australia.

Background Simulation-based education is routinely used in healthcare education and training. A key mechanism to optimise simulation-based education is learner preparation. While diverse pre-simulation preparation approaches are described in the literature, these are predominantly focused on activities that are undertaken in either university and/or skills centre contexts. In contrast, the learner preparation practices for simulation-based education that is delivered insitu in healthcare facilities by clinical nurse and midwifery educators are underexplored.

Design This study used an exploratory qualitative design.

Methods Participants were recruited using purposive sampling from a potential study group of thirty. Twelve individuals from the nursing and midwifery education group met selection criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Each individual participated in a semi-structured interview. Interview data were then transcribed and analysed using qualitative descriptive methods.

Results Data analysis resulted in the development of four themes related to the preparation of participants for insitu simulation-based education sessions. Each theme informs the choices of clinical nurse/midwifery educators’ preparation practices: 1) responsivity to workplace and clinical priorities; 2) clinical educator objectives; 3) preparedness for learning and clinical practice; and 4) evolving educational expertise.

Conclusion This study explored the preparation practices of nurse and midwifery clinical educators engaged in the delivery of insitu simulation-based education. Findings indicate a depth of experiences and a willingness to share practice insights, suggesting that insitu simulation-based education is an integral part of the in service repertoire and a key component of departmental education strategies, designed to support practice and hone skills required to deliver quality patient care.