The CHSE (Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator) credential is awarded by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) to educators who use simulation-based learning in clinical training programs. Earning your CHSE validates expertise in simulation theory, scenario design, debriefing methodology, and program management.
This free CHSE practice test PDF gives you printable exam questions you can study anywhere — no internet required. Download it, print it, and work through questions covering all domains tested on the certification examination.
Questions draw on foundational frameworks including Kolb's experiential learning cycle, constructivism, and deliberate practice theory. You'll need to understand adult learning theory (andragogy) as applied to simulation and the concept of psychological safety — creating environments where learners feel safe to make and openly discuss errors. The fidelity spectrum (conceptual, physical, and psychological fidelity) is also heavily tested.
The exam covers standardized patients (SPs) — their training, case development, and scoring rubrics — along with high-fidelity mannequin simulators, task trainers for procedural skill practice, screen-based simulators, virtual reality (VR) simulation, and hybrid simulators that combine multiple modalities.
Debriefing is considered the most critical component of simulation-based education. Expect questions on the advocacy-inquiry framework, plus/delta debriefing, the GAS model (gather, analyze, summarize), and the PEARLS model (promoting excellence and reflective learning in simulation). Video-assisted debriefing, facilitator frame of reference, and defusing versus debriefing distinctions are also tested.
This domain covers needs assessment for simulation curricula, writing SMART learning objectives, resource and equipment management, faculty development programs, and applying quality improvement principles to simulation operations.
You should understand formative versus summative assessment, OSCEs (objective structured clinical examinations), checklists versus global rating scales, assessor training and calibration, and the Kirkpatrick model (reaction, learning, behavior, results) for evaluating program effectiveness.
Scenario writing elements include objectives, scenario narrative, simulator setup, cues and triggers, embedded actors, and debriefing guides. Scenario validation, pilot testing, and case library management are also fair game.
Prefer to practice on a screen? Our full CHSE practice test library lets you answer questions interactively, see instant feedback, and track your score by domain. Combine online practice with the printable PDF for a complete study strategy.