OP07 Simulation training for core medical trainees: an experience of designing a new programme focussing on challenging communication scenarios and human factors

Abstract

Aim To design and deliver a pilot project of a half–day simulation training session available to all core medical trainees working in the Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals trust To write simulation scenarios which included challenging or complex communication scenarios To evaluate participant feedback from the sessions with the aim of making this a permanent programme which will be available to CMT trainees on an annual basis. Objectives To design and write scenarios for six separate acute medical emergencies which can be delivered as part of a simulation programme using SIM man and the simulation centre at the Freeman Hospital To include in each scenario a complex communication scenario which must be addressed by the candidate to help develop their leadership and communication skills. Summary of work undertaken We designed and are in the process of delivering a simulation training day for all of our Core Medical Trainees working within the Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals trust. Each scenario was specifically written to assess knowledge of an acute medical emergency, but also additionally included a communication element. For example, the STEMI scenario was carefully written to include a DNACPR discussion with a relative (role player) when the simulated patient (SIM man) was deemed unsuitable for primary coronary intervention. In the anaphylaxis scenario, a role player acted the part of an angry relative, challenging the candidate to de-escalate the situation but also consider aspects such as duty of candour and explaining a mistake (drug error) to a patient and their family. Other scenarios included interactions with other specialties or intensive care (with the referral taker being obstructive initially) as the communication aspect of the scenario. Our experience was that candidates highly valued having the opportunity to practice difficult communication scenarios in a safe learning environment. Simulation training, where each candidate undertook a different scenario, enabled us to push able candidates, whilst using an adaptable scenario which could be adjusted if the candidate was struggling with aspects of the medical management. This project acted as a pilot project this year. We aim to continue to make the programme available to all core medical trainees within our trust next year. Impact on practice Every core medical trainee working within our trust was able to undertake a half day simulation session during which they each had the opportunity to independently lead one scenario and were able to watch the other scenarios via video-link with a de-brief afterwards. For those trainees entering medical registrar training jobs next year this was an invaluable opportunity to practice leadership roles and approaching challenging communication scenarios. As this was a pilot project we are awaiting the final pilot sessions to take place in May before we will evaluate feedback from all the participants and how we might refine the scenario we wrote specifically for this programme.