Objective. Interprofessional simulation (IPS) training is an effective way to learn crisis resource management. The type of debriefing used in IPS training may affect participants’ performance and their level of psychological safety. We aimed to assess and compare performance after standard collective debriefing versus a combination of individual and collective debriefing (“combined” approach).

Methods. Randomized, controlled multicenter trial. IPS sessions were randomized to have either standard or combined debriefing. Each team’s performance in the IPS session was assessed with the Team Emergency Assessment Measure. The participants assessed the debriefing quality with the Debriefing Assessment for Simulation in Healthcare.

Results. Forty IPS sessions were randomized, and 30 were analyzed, 15 using standard collective debriefing and 15 the combined individual–collective method. Teams’ performance improved with both types of debriefing, based on pre-post testing (P<. 01), and there were no significant differences in overall performance scores between the 2 types of debriefing (P=. 64). However, the combined approach was associated with higher scores for leadership skills (P<. 05) and psychological safety, and the participants’ learning experience was better (P<. 05).

Conclusions. During IPS courses on crisis resource management, debriefing improves participants’ performance, but similar overall results can be obtained with both debriefing methods. Combined debriefing might be more effective for improving participants’ leadership skills and psychological safety and also provide a better learning experience.