On November 19, 2024, Lon Setnik, Director of Clinical Programs at CMS, delivered a Grand Rounds presentation for the Jefferson Einstein Emergency Department. The session introduced the “Einstein 5” framework to the Emergency Medicine Faculty and highlighted the importance of debriefing in fostering both professional growth and psychological well-being. Participants explored how structured reflection can transform difficult clinical experiences into opportunities for improvement and resilience.
The Jefferson Einstein Emergency Department is working to enhance learning and psychological recovery among its team by implementing a clinical debriefing program known as the “Einstein 5.” This initiative, championed by departmental leadership and built on the work of Dr. Jessie Parsons and others, aims to create a shared, structured approach to learning conversations following challenging resuscitations.
Dr. Setnik’s expertise stems from years of experience designing and implementing debriefing systems that are practical, evidence-based, and impactful. He also brings experience in medical staff leadership and change management to the program. Barriers often exist to clinical debriefing including competing interests of other care priorities. The “Einstein 5” framework was created by the Jefferson Einstein organization and draws from best practices in debriefing and emphasizes a balance between psychological safety and actionable learning. By prioritizing these principles, the program seeks to ensure that every member of the team can contribute, reflect, and recover in the wake of high-stakes situations.
The enthusiasm generated during the Grand Rounds session sets the stage for Setnik’s return to Jefferson Einstein in December for an in-person workshop. This hands-on event will allow team members to deepen their understanding of the “Einstein 5” and practice applying the framework in real-time scenarios. The workshop is aimed at empowering residents as learning leaders. EM residents will be equipped with practical tools and confidence to lead effective debriefings within their teams.
The Jefferson Einstein Emergency Department’s commitment to clinical debriefing reflects a shift that the CMS-ALPS program leads, moving healthcare away from fixing previous mistakes and toward prioritizing team well-being and continuous learning. We must bring the lessons and values of simulation to everyday work in healthcare.
