What is the role of a confederate in a simulation?

The role of a confederate in a simulation is to provide additional information or realism. Confederates are individuals who are part of the simulation scenario but are not the primary focus of the training. Their purpose is to enhance the authenticity of the experience by portraying specific roles, responding to learner actions, or offering key insights that contribute to more dynamic interactions. This realism is essential for creating an immersive environment where learners can practice their skills in a context that closely resembles real-life situations.

Confederates may represent various characters, such as family members, bystanders, or other healthcare professionals, depending on the simulation's goals. By incorporating confederates, the simulation can better mimic the complexities of patient care, including communication and teamwork, thereby enriching the overall learning experience for participants.