PG62 Does the incorporation of multiple simulation scenarios into paediatric undergraduate medical education increase medical student’s confidence in recognising and managing acutely unwell children?

Abstract

Background The use of simulation in education is increasing with one of the main advantages being a forum to practice skills in a controlled environment.1 For medical students undergoing a placement in paediatrics it can be a daunting task with worries ranging from examining a child to winning over a shy patient.2 The use of simulation in paediatrics gives students the opportunity to practice and gain confidence in reviewing and examining children. Simulation training can help students to recognise and an manage an acutely unwell child, which is something they may not otherwise get a chance to see during their placements, let alone being allowed to manage on their own. Summary of Work Over a 7-month period (September 2019– March 2020) 25 undergraduate medical students during paediatric placement underwent a novel simulation programme with the Paediatric Undergraduate Clinical Teaching fellow. The simulation sessions covered acute presentations in paediatrics scenarios (9) ranging from neonatal sepsis, undiagnosed congenital heart disease, anaphylaxis and croup. The sessions ran over a 2-day during their 5-week placement. The same sessions were repeated for each of the groups of students group numbers ranged from 4–5 students at one time. Feedback was taken immediately post session and a survey sent out to all students (25) who had taken part in the novel programme. The last group of students (5) were unable to complete the simulation due to COVID19 therefore responses removed from the feedback. Summary of Results 100% of the groups who completed the Novel simulation programme mentioned it in their end of placement feedback in a positive manner. 19/20 of the students had taken part in simulation previously. 0% of the students had previously undertaken any paediatric simulation. 70% (14/20) strongly agreed the Paediatric simulation sessions provided a realistic setting in the recognition and management of acutely unwell children. 6/20 Agreed. 85% strongly agreed they felt more confident in the recognition of acutely unwell children post the simulation session (6/20 agreed).65% strongly agreed they felt more confident in the management of acutely unwell children. 65% strongly agreed they felt more confident in dealing with ANY acutely unwell patient Discussion and Conclusions The use of simulation in paediatric undergraduate curriculum enhances learning. Increases confidence in both recognition and management of acutely unwell children but increased the student’s confidence with the management of any acutely unwell patient. Recommendations Incorporation of more simulation into Paediatric Undergraduate Medical Curriculum. References Ivette Motola, Luke A. Devine, Hyun Soo Chung, John E. Sullivan & S. Barry Issenberg. (2013) Simulation in healthcare education: A best evidence practical guide. AMEE Guide No. 82, Medical Teacher, 35:10, e1511-e1530, DOI: 10.3109/0142159X.2013.818632 Craze J, Hope T.( 2006) Teaching medical students to examine children. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 21 December 2006;Vol.91(12): p.966