PEDIATRIC SIMULATION IN EMERGENCY MEDICINE RESIDENCY TRAINING

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Simulation based training is correlated with improved outcomes in pediatrics and as an educational modality, has been widely adopted in pediatric emergency medicine. This is especially important given the infrequent nature of high acuity events in pediatrics, even amongst high volume centers. However, the majority of children are still cared for outside of pediatric centers. Because general emergency departments see large numbers of children, it is important that pediatric training be robust in emergency medicine training. Prior research has shown that there is a positive correlation between simulation based learning programs with improved pediatric outcomes. While most emergency medicine programs in Canada have integrated simulation into their programs, it remains unclear how pediatric specific simulation has been incorporated. OBJECTIVES 1. Determine if and how pediatric simulation is formally integrated into existing simulation curricula in Emergency Medicine training programs. 2. Determine barriers of implementation of pediatric simulation. DESIGN/METHODS: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was sent to program directors of Royal College accredited emergency medicine programs across Canada. RESULTS CONCLUSION: The survey shows that all programs report formal integration of pediatric simulation into their residency curricula. Most programs use pediatric simulation to practice high stakes/rare events and report needs in neonatal and pediatric resuscitation in particular. Use of simulation as an evaluative tool remains uncommon. The most significant barriers in implementing simulation relate to human resources. Programs appear reluctant to use nationally developed curricula.