634 Utilizing Simulation Based Training to Teach Wound Management Strategies When Caring for Burns Treated with Autologous Skin Cell Suspension

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Simulation based training (SBT) is an experience meant to replace real-life events with guided simulated clinical scenarios. The goal is fully interactive training that closely replicates the real world. SBT is well known in military and aviation and has been well integrated into the education of new nurses and physicians however, it has not been fully integrated into the ongoing development of skills for clinicians practicing in hospitals that are learning new technologies. Following FDA approval of a regenerative medicine platform that prepares autologous skin cell suspension (ASCS), an opportunity was identified to augment conventional training with a SBT educational program giving clinicians the opportunity to practice wound care in a simulated learning environment. Methods A prototype was developed alongside experts from a university-based experiential learning center. It included an anatomical silicone mold of a thigh (model) with silicone cartridges of ASCS treatment areas (excised deep partial-thickness burn with dermis and excised full-thickness burn with wide meshed split thickness skin graft). The cartridges fit in a depressed area of the thigh and can be exchanged between case scenarios. The cartridge allows for moulage to be applied, enhancing the life-like appearance of the model. The initial prototype was tested during a pilot with burn center staff. A total of 4 case scenarios related to ASCS aftercare were evaluated. Following the pilot, the program was demonstrated to our internal clinical team to gain additional insight. The feedback was incorporated into a final design. Results There were 17 participants in the pilot training (6 hands-on/11 observers). All hands-on participants either agreed or strongly agreed that SBT was useful to their clinical practice. Comments included: “Very realistic”, “really liked the hands-on”, “confidence booster”, “these are the most common scenarios we see”. One participant commented that even though she had never participated in an ASCS dressing change, she has the confidence to do so now. Soliciting feedback from our internal team on the design and portability of the model was an important step to ensure barriers to use were removed. To date, 11 training systems including models, cartridges, case scenarios, debrief tools and dressing kits have been distributed with a total of 30 systems expected by the end of 2020. Conclusions During development of the SBT program, input from clinicians and educators helped gain insight to the program and ensured the scenarios were relative to real-world experiences. Early findings suggest SBT is a value add for clinicians caring for patients post ASCS application.