Abstract
Background:Simulation is a broad concept used as an education pedagogy for a wide range of disciplines. The use of simulation to educate paramedics is a frequently used but untested modality to teach psycho-motor skills, acquire new knowledge and gain competence in practice. This review identifies how simulation is currently being used for the education of paramedics, and establish the context for future application.Methods:A scoping review of the literature was undertaken following the PRISMA systematic approach. Flexible inclusion criteria were used to capture research and non-research articles that would contribute to the synthesis of literature with a specific knowledge base pertaining to simulation use for paramedic education.Results:Initial searching yielded 1388 records, of which 22 remained after initial title and abstract reading. Following secondary full-text screening, 18 articles were deemed appropriate for final inclusion: eight are research, two literature reviews and eight non-research. Across all the literature, a range of concepts are discussed: Skill vs Scenario, Virtual Learning, Inter-Professional Learning, Fidelity, Cost, Equipment, Improvement of Competency, Patient Safety, Perception of Simulation.Conclusion:It is evident that simulation is a primary teaching modality, consistently used to educate and train paramedics. Simulation is inherently effective at teaching clinical skills and building student competence in particular areas. Similarly, simulation is effective at providing paramedics with experiences and opportunities to learn in varied environments using differing techniques. This allows students to apply the relevant skills and knowledge when faced with real patients.
Highlights
Simulation is a broad concept used as an education pedagogy for a wide range of disciplines
When tested in the operating room (OR), paramedic students who were trained in endotracheal intubation (ETI) on a simulator were as effective as students who trained on human subjects
It is evident that Simulation-Based Education (SBE) is a primary teaching modality, reliably used to educate and train paramedics
Summary
Simulation is a broad concept used as an education pedagogy for a wide range of disciplines. The use of simulation to educate paramedics is a frequently used but untested modality to teach psycho-motor skills, acquire new knowledge and gain competence in practice. The most accepted definition is: An array of structured activities that represent actual or potential situations in education and practice These activities allow participants to develop or enhance their knowledge, skills, and attitudes, or to analyze and respond to realistic situations in a simulated environment. Regardless of pathway through to registration, student paramedics spend a substantial portion of their education undergoing simulation-based training (NHTSA, 2009). These simulations have a variety of intended outcomes, dependent on the skills or lessons taught. At a higher cognitive level, it is used to challenge the student’s ability to problemsolve and adapt to the patient presented (Cannon-Bowers, 2008; Cheng et al, 2007; Ziv et al, 2005)
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