Background 

Simulation has become a staple in the training of healthcare professionals with accumulating evidence on its effectiveness. However, guidelines for optimal methods of simulation training do not currently exist.

Methods 

Systematic reviews of the literature on 16 identified key questions were conducted and expert panel consensus recommendations determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology.

Objective 

These evidence-based guidelines from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare intend to support healthcare professionals in decisions on the most effective methods for simulation training in healthcare

Results 

Twenty recommendations on 16 questions were determined using GRADE. Four expert recommendations were also provided.

Conclusions 

The first evidence-based guidelines for simulation training are provided to guide instructors and learners on the most effective use of simulation in healthcare.