1:30 PM Abstract No. 139 - Experience with clinical skills based simulation and a process for improvement

Abstract

Purpose Technical simulation is an established model in IR; however with the increasing emphasis of clinical IR, clinical simulation may also have an important role in fellowship training. We have developed and implemented a fellowship clinical simulation program for the past 3 years. Our purpose is to share lessons learned from an analysis of this simulation curriculum. Materials and Methods Beginning in 2010, we piloted two clinic-based objective structured clinical evaluation (OSCE) simulations. This was expanded in 2011 to 4 clinical OSCEs (2 clinic-assessment based; 2 clinic-communication based), and again in 2012 to two repetitions of the 4 OSCEs. As a part of a larger improvement process, retrospective evaluation was performed via survey with past fellows, with analysis conducted by a current fellow, IR faculty, and a PhD educator. Results Analysis showed that clinical scenarios contributed to IR education. Of particular importance was the feedback that the clinical-communication based OSCEs permitted learning in a controlled setting with critique from experienced faculty and experienced standardized patients (SP). Additionally, process and structural improvements were identified and integrated into OSCE cases to mirror clinical experiences. Conclusion Training fellows in clinical IR is crucial. Training in the clinic on interactions with patients in the IR department is important but can be inadequate. Our institution of a clinical simulation program has improved fellow education by enhancing their confidence and communication skills. The important lessons we have learned may benefit other programs considering a clinical simulation curriculum.