Simulation-based Course Research Articles

Subjective learning gain from a simulation-based health management course: a mixed methods study.

Simulations are increasingly being offered as part of the educational experience of healthcare students. We used a Health Management Scenario Simulation system to create a course. This study aimed to evaluate learning gains before and after the course. Based on the learning strategies of framing, simulation, and debriefing, the Health Management Scenario Simulation course lasted 4 weeks and was conducted online. Learning gain was assessed using a comparative self-assessment questionnaire administered electronically at the beginning and end of the course. We organized focus group interviews and collected quantitative data after students completed the simulations and the questionnaire. These data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis and thematic grouping using frequency counting. There were 195 health management students enrolled in the course. In total, 265 anonymously completed questionnaires were received, 141 (72.31%) on the pre-simulation and 124 (63.59%) on the post-simulation. All questionnaire item gain values were positive, except the item "I can identify common health risk factors," which showed no change. The skills domain showed the highest learning gain, ranging from 16 to 22%. Six students participated in the focus-group study. The main themes that emerged from students' reflections were learner-centeredness, competencies, and career development. Students acquired health management skills through the simulation, which contributed to the development of basic attitudes and skills in their professional careers. Students' comments highlighted the value of practicing health management skills in a simulated environment.

L’annonce en oncologie pédiatrique – retour d’expérience sur les formations par méthode de simulation dans le GOCE (Grand Ouest cancer de l’enfant)

The announcement of a cancer diagnosis is a crucial moment in the management of the disease, as it is the starting point for a relationship of trust between patient and caregiver. In 2005, this issue led to the creation of an announcement system as part of the 2003-2007 cancer plan, but its implementation in practice remains uncertain. Pediatric oncology has its own specificities, with a triangular relationship and the need for doctors to adapt to the child's age. These skills require special training, and training opportunities vary from one area to another. To this end, the Angers and Caen centers have developed simulation exercises for training in pediatric oncology announcement. These consist of a theoretical part, followed by an announcement interview with actors, then a debriefing. Evaluation questionnaires are completed by learners before and after the session, and have highlighted the usefulness of this training, particularly in helping them to feel better prepared to face this stressful moment. As simulation has proved its educational value in the healthcare field, GOCE has developed simulation-based training courses for interns/CCAs/assistants in the territory. These courses are much appreciated and are proving extremely useful in clinical practice. This has led the SFCE to extend these courses to all CCAs and young PHs in pediatric oncology in France.

A cooperative learning intervention for improving a simulation-based paediatric nursing course: A quasi-experimental study

AimThis study aimed to examine if a cooperative intervention improved outcomes for a simulation-based paediatric nursing course. BackgroundFostering cooperative learning can enhance student engagement and improve learning. Simulation-based courses provide nursing students an opportunity to practice and hone nursing skills when hands-on experiences are limited. Providing instruction in cooperative learning could improve course outcomes. DesignA quasi-experimental study with pre-test/post-test assessments. MethodsThird-year nursing students enrolled in an 18-week paediatric simulation-based nursing course were purposively recruited (N = 110). One class (n = 55) received a researcher-developed cooperative learning program, which encouraged student support during class activities and simulations. The second class (control) received usual class instruction and simulations. The efficacy of the intervention was assessed by comparing mean scores at class enrolment (pre-test) and completion (post-test) for self-perceived problem-solving attitude, cooperative learning experience and knowledge of paediatric nursing. Paired t-tests compared pre-test with post-test scores for the two groups. ANCOVA examined differences in mean scores between groups. Correlations between differences in mean pre-test and post-test subscale scores for problem-solving attitude and cooperative learning experience were also examined. ResultsThere was no significant difference in age or gender between groups. Mean post-test scores on the final exam were significantly higher for students who received the intervention (85.26, 95 % CI 84.19, 86.33) compared with controls (83.61, 95 % CI 82.52, 84.69; F = 4.63, p = 0.034). There were no significant differences in total scores for problem-solving attitude or cooperative learning experience or between groups. For the intervention group, two problem solving subscales were correlated with two cooperative learning subscales: problem solving confidence with learning motivation, respectively (r = 0.302, p = 0.025) and personal control with classroom learning, respectively (r = 0.389, p = 0.003). For the control group, approach-avoidance problem solving was negatively correlated with cooperative learning efficacy (r = −0.343, p = 0.01). ConclusionsCompared with the control group, nursing students who received the cooperative learning intervention had higher scores for knowledge of paediatric nursing, as well as learning motivation and attitude and problem-solving confidence, suggesting that the researcher-designed intervention facilitated simulation-based learning as well as confidence in problem-solving. Nurse educators could easily integrate the intervention into simulation-based paediatric nursing courses to enhance students' problem-solving abilities.

Enhancing aviation English competency: A simulation-based approach for aspiring pilots

Aviation English (AE) represents a noteworthy area of investigation within the realm of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), aimed at fostering English language competency among aspiring pilots. In this study, a simulation-based aviation English course was designed and implemented for improved learning gains. The present study took place at a tertiary educational institution, focusing on the analysis of AE vocabulary development, the readback performance of student pilots, and the examination of participants' perceptions of simulation-based training. Employing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory research design, data were gathered from 21 ab-initio pilots enrolled in the Pilotage Training program. The quantitative results showed that participants significantly improved their readback performance and AE vocabulary knowledge over the course of a semester. With regard to the qualitative results, student pilots overall perceived the simulation-based training as an innovative and effective method. The present study, therefore, constitutes a notable advancement in the AE research domain by documenting, for the first time, the application of simulation-based training in the aviation context. Moreover, the study offers insights into the implications for ESP practitioners and stakeholders in the aviation sector, along with recommendations for future research, which are delineated in the study's conclusion.

Impact of a regional simulation-based training course in the implementation of external cephalic version: Intervention study.

The aims of this study were to assess whether a regional simulation-based training course in external cephalic version (ECV) would lead to the adoption of this technique in hospitals where it was not previously practiced, and to improve success rates in those already performing it. This was an intervention study where two specialists in obstetrics and gynecology from 10 Portuguese public maternity hospitals attended a structured simulation-based training in ECV. Hospitals were categorized based on whether ECV was conducted prior to the training program, and on their annual number of deliveries. Main outcomes were the number of ECVs performed in the 2 years before and after the course, and their success rates. Implementation of ECV was achieved in four additional hospitals during the 2 years following the course. Among the three hospitals already performing ECV and able to report their data, no significant differences in success rates were observed in the 2 years following the course (45.6% vs. 47.9%, P = 0.797). After a successful ECV, 77.7% of women had a vaginal delivery. A regional simulation-based training course in ECV led to an increase in the number of hospitals implementing the technique in the subsequent 2 years, but it did not impact the success rates in centers where it was already performed. This study highlights the potential of simulation-based courses in ECV, as well as the need to improve patients´ access to the technique and to centralize ECV services at a regional level.

Implementation of a Global Pediatric Trauma Course in an Upper Middle–Income Country: A Pilot Study

IntroductionOver 90% of pediatric trauma deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), yet pediatric trauma-focused training remains unstandardized and inaccessible, especially in LMICs. In Brazil, where trauma is the leading cause of death for children over age 1, we piloted the first global adaptation of the Trauma Resuscitation in Kids (TRIK) course and assessed its feasibility. MethodsA 2-day simulation-based global TRIK course was hosted in Belo Horizonte in October 2022, led by one Brazilian and four Canadian instructors. The enrollment fee was $200 USD, and course registration sold out in 4 d. We administered a knowledge test before and after the course and a postcourse self-evaluation. We recorded each simulation to assess participants’ performance, reflected in a team performance score. Groups received numerical scores for these three areas, which were equally weighted to calculate a final performance score. The scores given by the two evaluators were then averaged. As groups performed the specific simulations in varying orders, the simulations were grouped into four time blocks for analysis of performance over time. Statistical analysis utilized a combination of descriptive analysis, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. ResultsTwenty-one surgeons (19 pediatric, one trauma, one general) representing four of five regions in Brazil consented to study participation. Women comprised 76% (16/21) of participants. Overall, participants scored higher on the knowledge assessment after the course (68% versus 76%; z = 3.046, P < 0.001). Participants reported improved knowledge for all tested components of trauma management (P < 0.001). The average simulation performance score increased from 66% on day 1% to 73% on day 2, although this increase was not statistically significant. All participants reported they were more confident managing pediatric trauma after the course and would recommend the course to others. ConclusionsCompletion of global TRIK improved surgeons’ confidence, knowledge, and clinical decision-making skills in managing pediatric trauma, suggesting a standardized course may improve pediatric trauma care and outcomes in LMICs. We plan to more closely address cost, language, and resource barriers to implementing protocolized trauma training in LMICs with the aim to improve patient outcomes and equity in trauma care globally.

Stress responses in surgical trainees during simulation-based training courses in laparoscopy

BackgroundSimulation-based training courses in laparoscopy have become a fundamental part of surgical training programs. Surgical skills in laparoscopy are challenging to master, and training in these skills induces stress responses in trainees. There is limited data on trainees’ stress levels, the stress responses related to training on different laparoscopic simulators, and how previous experiences influence trainees’ stress response during a course. This study investigates physiologic, endocrine and self-reported stress responses during simulation-based surgical skills training in a course setting.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study of trainees attending basic laparoscopic skills training courses at a national training centre. During the three-day course, participants trained on different laparoscopic simulators: Two box-trainers (the D-box and P.O.P. trainer) and a virtual reality simulator (LAPMentor™). Participants’ stress responses were examined through heart rate variability (HRV), saliva cortisol, and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory-6 (STAI-6). The correlation between previous laparoscopic experiences and stress response measurements was explored.ResultsTwenty-four surgical trainees were included in the study. Compared to resting conditions, stress measures were significantly higher during simulation-training activity (the D-box (SDNN = 58.5 ± 23.4; LF/HF-ratio = 4.58 ± 2.71; STAI-6 = 12.3 ± 3.9, P < 0.05), the P.O.P trainer (SDNN = 55.7 ± 7.4; RMSSD = 32.4 ± 17.1; STAI-6 = 12.1 ± 3.9, P < 0.05), and the LAPMentor™ (SDNN = 59.1 ± 18.5; RMSSD = 34.3 ± 19.7; LF/HF-ratio = 4.71 ± 2.64; STAI-6 = 9.9 ± 3.0, P < 0.05)). A significant difference in endocrine stress response was seen for the simulation-training activity on the D-box (saliva cortisol: 3.48 ± 1.92, P < 0.05), however, no significant differences were observed between the three simulators. A moderate correlation between surgical experience, and physiologic and endocrine stress response was observed (RMSSD: r=-0.31; SDNN: r=-0.42; SD2/SD1 ratio: r = 0.29; Saliva cortisol: r = 0.46; P < 0.05), and a negative moderate correlation to self-reported stress (r=-0.42, P < 0.05).ConclusionTrainees have a significant higher stress response during simulation-training compared to resting conditions, with no difference in stress response between the simulators. Significantly higher cortisol levels were observed on the D-box, indicating that simulation tasks with time pressure stress participants the most. Trainees with more surgical experience are associated with higher physiologic stress measures, but lower self-reported stress scores, demonstrating that surgical experience influences trainees’ stress response during simulation-based skills training courses.

Value of a blended learning supervision course at the advanced level: Supervisors’ experiences

Aim: To explore what experiences specialist nurses and midwives have with a blended learning course (digital course component one and physical course component two) to develop their supervisory competence. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design with two focus group interviews (n=9) and written reflections from participants (n=70) from five courses conducted in 2021 and 2022. Findings: Thematic analysis revealed two main themes: 1) The value of blended learning in a clinical supervision course and 2) Areas for improvement. Participants experienced a profound learning outcome through the acquisition of theoretical knowledge digitally during part one of the course, followed by in-person engagement in simulation-based learning activities in part two. Specifically, the participants gained a heightened awareness of the complexity of supervision and increased confidence in using communication tools through simulation. The challenges faced in the digital part of the course highlighted the need for technical improvements, emphasizing the importance of improving flexibility and development of an application for easy access to learning resources. Conclusion: The findings indicate that the blended learning approach enhanced supervision competence. The online component facilitated a more profound learning experience in the in-person simulation-based course. Recommendations for improvement centered on simplifying content and introducing greater flexibility and accessibility in the digital part of the course.

A115 EVALUATING THE CONTENT AND FACE VALIDITY OF LOW-COST GEL POLYPS FOR POLYPECTOMY SKILLS TRAINING IN NOVICE ENDOSCOPISTS

Abstract Background Polypectomy is an essential endoscopic skill involving the removal of potentially premalignant lesions during colonoscopy. The ad hoc nature of polyp encounters is a significant barrier to polypectomy training, as this limits the ability to deliberately practice the skill. Effective and accessible polypectomy simulators may improve global implementation of polypectomy curricula. Aims To determine the face and content validity of a novel low-cost gel polyp simulator for use in endoscopic training programs. Methods A novel gel polyp simulator with multiple polyp morphologies based on the Paris classification was developed and used with a commercially available colonic phantom (Koken Lower GI Endoscopy Simulator Type II LM-107, Koken CO.LTD, Japan) in an endoscopy simulation-based training course (July, 2023). Feedback based on previous prototypes of the simulator were implemented into the simulator utilized in the present study. Novice (ampersand:003C25 procedures) and expert (ampersand:003E1000 procedures) endoscopists performed simulated procedures with the gel polyps. Using a five-point Likert scale (“strongly agree” to “strongly disagree”), a post-training survey based on previously published surveys used to determine the face and content validity of low-cost physical colonic simulators was administered. A section for additional comments was placed at the end of the survey. Results The face and content validity survey was completed by 3 experts and 21 novices. The median score for all face validity questions was 5 (IQR 5-5) from experts and 5 (IQR 5-5) from novices. The median score for all content validity questions was 5 (IQR 5-4) from experts and 5 (IQR 5-5) from novices. In the additional comments section of the survey, one expert commented that future iterations of the gel polyps should be made thicker so that trainees could practice using endoscopic clips. The gel polyp simulator cost $0.61 CAD/polyp including the cost of materials and 3D printed molds. Conclusions The gel polyp simulator appears to be a feasible modality for polypectomy training that is reproducible using accessible and low cost materials. Face and Content Validity Survey (questions and median survey score) Funding Agencies None

A virtual simulation-based clinical skills course.

Advancements in technology continue to transform the landscape of medical education. Virtual reality (VR) and remote simulation represent unique approaches to teaching students clinical skills through experiential learning. We developed, implemented and evaluated a virtual simulation-based course modelled on Kolb's Learning Cycle. A 5-day, 15-h virtual clerkship clinical skills curriculum designed to help students recognise a patient requiring urgent or emergent care was piloted in May 2020. VR and remote simulations facilitated concrete experiences, reflective observation, concept formation, and active experimentation. Curricular evaluation included analysis of usage, performance, self-assessment, and perceptions of educational value. One hundred and fifty-six students completed 436 VR sessions (median 3 per student). Students repeated virtual cases, on average, 75% of the time, demonstrating improvement in average performance scores from 59% (attempt 1) to 72% (attempt 2). Post-course evaluations, completed by 109 (69.9%) students, demonstrated significant improvements in mean scores in all domains of a self-assessment based on emergent care skills. We developed and implemented a virtual clinical skills course that allowed students to progress through all four stages of Kolb's Learning Cycle. VR and remote simulations represent an opportunity for educators to reimagine and expand opportunities for experiential learning. The number of students accommodated, total virtual simulations completed, and positive student feedback suggests that this may be a feasible, acceptable, and scalable method for increasing opportunities for progression through Kolb's Learning Cycle. Further investigation into impact on educational outcomes is needed.

PedsTalk: A Pilot Communication Skills Education Course for Pediatric Residents.

Communication skills are critical to pediatric practice, but few pediatric residency programs provide formal communication skills education. Pediatric residents often lack confidence in these skills. We hypothesized that a simulation-based communication skills course would improve resident confidence in the skills required for serious illness conversations with patients/families. In collaboration with multidiscipline VitalTalk-trained faculty, we developed PedsTalk, a communication skills course for pediatric residents based on the VitalTalk framework. In PedsTalk, faculty/peers offered real-time coaching during simulation sessions with actors. Resident participants self-rated confidence in 9 communication skills using a 5-point Likert scale before, immediately after, and 4 months after course participation, with course nonparticipants serving as controls. Responses were analyzed by using Friedman tests and Wilcoxon rank tests. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes among free-text responses. Twenty-seven pediatric residents participated in PedsTalk, 11 of whom completed survey assessments at all timepoints. Eleven course nonparticipants served as controls. Over time, participants' confidence in the following communication skills was retained or significantly improved: "difficult conversations" (P < .001), "recognizing emotion" (P < .01), "using silence" (P < .008), "headline statements" (P < .001), eliciting "VALUES" (P < .001), and asking "permission to continue" (P < .001). Over time, controls had significant improvements in confidence in 2 skills: headline statements (P < .014) and eliciting "VALUES" (P < .031). PedsTalk is a novel approach to communication skills education in pediatric residency. Participation improved residents' confidence in 6 communication skills, including overall confidence in having difficult conversations. Although confidence in some skills may naturally develop through clinical experiences, PedsTalk further enhances communication skills education among trainees.

Unlocking student success

This paper draws upon the authors' extensive experience in designing and delivering simulation-based courses in both Australia and New Zealand. Through their first-hand experience, they have found that simulation-based courses offer distinct advantages compared to traditional pedagogical approaches. Participants in these courses exhibit enhanced learning and retention due to their active engagement and sense of ownership in the learning process. By adopting a "hands-on" approach, the majority of course time is dedicated to experiential learning and discovery rather than passive listening (Garris, Ahlers &amp; Driskell, 2002). The purpose of this article is to present and elaborate on how simulations can be used in business education along with insights the authors have gained over the years. In most business simulations, learners are immersed in the role of managing a firm within a competitive environment(s), engage in competition with other firms operating in the same industry, and strive to effectively produce, market goods, and optimize resource management for sustainable growth. Throughout the process of completing the simulation students have noted that they not only expand their business knowledge but also improve their employability skills, particularly teamwork, problem solving, communication and critical analysis. This paper also reflects on the relationships built throughout the simulation course.

A19Identification of clinical reasoning models commonly used in simulation-based education

Simulation can immerse learners in scenarios that mimic clinical situations, simultaneously mitigating safety risks and increasing standardization in healthcare education [1]. Through simulation, learners can get the chance to develop clinical reasoning with focused learning opportunities [2]. Clinical reasoning is multidimensional in nature, and underdeveloped clinical reasoning skills and the risk of cognitive overload can potentially threaten patient safety and delay care, so it is important to systematize, optimize and structure clinical reasoning for simulation-based education [3]. That can be achieved through using valid clinical reasoning models but with careful consideration to the contributing and influencing factors of case complexity, staff seniority, competence, scope of practice, specialty and subspecialty. A scoping review was undertaken to answer the questions: what are the best available valid and reliable clinical reasoning models for simulation-based education? We searched Medline, Scopus, Education Research Complete and Google Scholar to identify relevant recent primary research conducted on this topic from 2000 onwards. The search included MeSH topics of ‘Clinical reasoning’, ‘Simulation-based education’ and ‘Clinical Reasoning models’. The inclusion criteria were primary studies describing the clinical reasoning models developed for simulation-based courses. Two independent researchers agreed on the inclusion of the identified articles for full-text review. This review followed the review guidelines of Joanne Briggs Institute. Five valid and reliable models to structure the clinical reasoning process while attending simulation-based training were identified and are reported in Identified clinical reasoning models based on the scoping review There is an adequate number of clinical reasoning models to be used while taking part in simulation-based training; however, there is a significant basis to test the reliability and validity of these models against different competence and seniority levels, and applicability to other healthcare professions. The authors are presently working on the development of a new model using an innovative and rigorous approach. Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.

Transfer of human factor skills from simulation-based training to competency in clinical practice – a demonstration of a hybrid method for assessing transfer of learning

Increasingly more resources are being used internationally in training and educating qualified healthcare personnel due to high personnel flow and rapid development within technology, care and treatment. Consequently, transferring learning from simulation-based training to competency in clinical practice is an essential question for healthcare faculty and management. Nevertheless, there is no established method for assessing if transfer occurs. This article aims to demonstrate how a hybrid method can explore transfer of learning from a simulation-based course to competency in clinical practice.

Experiences of medical students and nursing trainees from unexpected death through simulation training

BackgroundDying in simulation training is controversially discussed. On the one hand, the danger of an emotional overload of the learners is pointed out. On the other hand, dying in simulation settings is addressed as an opportunity to prepare future health professionals to deal with patient death. The present study investigates how medical students and nursing trainees experience the sudden death of a simulated patient and how and under which conditions it can be valuable to simulate the patient’s death.MethodsAt the TUM School of Medicine in Munich, Germany, we developed an interprofessional, simulation-based course in which participants were unexpectedly confronted with a cardiac arrest scenario within which resuscitation had to be discontinued due to an advanced directive. After the course, focus groups were conducted with nine medical students and six nursing trainees. Data were analysed using Grounded Theory techniques.ResultsThe participants reported low to high emotional involvement. The active renunciation of life-sustaining measures was felt to be particularly formative and caused a strange feeling and helplessness. Questions of what could have been done differently determined interviewees’ thoughts. The participants appreciated the opportunity to experience what it feels like to lose a patient. The course experience encouraged interviewees to reflect on dying and the interviewees explained that they feel better prepared to face death after the course. The unexpected character of the confrontation, presence of the advanced directive and debriefing positively affected the impact of the simulation.ConclusionsThe study recognises simulation training as a promising approach for preparing future health care professionals to encounter a patient’s death.

Putting the “learning” in “pre-learning”: effects of a self-directed study hall on skill acquisition in a simulation-based central line insertion course

BackgroundOpportunities to practice procedural skills in the clinical learning environment are decreasing, and faculty time to coach skills is limited, even in simulation-based training. Self-directed learning with hands-on practice early in a procedural skill course might help maximize the benefit of later faculty coaching and clinical experience. However, it may also lead to well-learned errors if learners lack critical guidance. The present study sought to investigate the effects of a hands-on, self-directed “study hall” for central line insertion among first-year residents.MethodsLearner cohorts before vs. after introduction of the study hall (n = 49) were compared on their pre- and post-test performance of key procedural behaviors that were comparable across cohorts, with all learners receiving traditional instructor-led training between tests.ResultsStudy hall participants spent a median of 116 min in hands-on practice (range 57–175). They scored higher at pre-test (44% vs. 27%, p = .00; Cohen’s d = 0.95) and at post-test (80% vs. 72%, p = .02; Cohen’s d = 0.69). A dose–response relationship was found, such that 2 h of study hall were roughly equivalent to the performance improvement seen with four clinical observations or supervised insertions of central lines.ConclusionsSelf-directed, hands-on “study hall” supported improved procedural skill learning in the context of limited faculty availability. Potential additional benefits make the approach worth further experimentation and evaluation.

Simulation-based workshop for emergency preparedness in otolaryngology.

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of a hands-on simulation-based course with emphasis on procedural techniques, clinical reasoning, and communication skills developed to improve junior Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) residents' preparedness in managing otolaryngologic emergencies. Junior OHNS residents and faculty from residency programs in California, Nevada, and Arizona participated in this workshop in 2020 and 2021. The stations featured airway management techniques, ultrasound-guided needle aspiration, nasoseptal hematoma evacuation, and facial fracture repair using various models and cadavers. Participants completed a pre-workshop survey, post-workshop survey, and 2-month follow-up survey that assessed resident anxiety and confidence in three OHNS emergency situations across knowledge, manual skills, and teamwork using a 5-point Likert scale. Pre-workshop surveys reported the least anxiety and most confidence in teamwork, but the most anxiety and least confidence in technical skills and knowledge related to foreign body retrieval and airway management. Immediately post-workshop participants reported significant reductions in anxiety and increases in confidence, largest in the manual skills domain, in foreign body retrieval (anxiety: -0.99, confidence: +0.95, p < .01) and airway management stations (anxiety: -0.68, confidence: +1.07, p < .01). Data collected for the epistaxis station showed decreasing confidence and increasing anxiety following the workshop. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of a workshop in preparing junior residents in potentially lifesaving otolaryngologic techniques that residents will encounter. Optimizing use of simulation centered training can inform the future of residency education, improving confidence and decreasing anxiety in residents responsible for the safety of patients. III.

Perception of simulation-based first-aid training by medical students: a qualitative descriptive study

Although first aid should be common knowledge for healthcare professionals, medical students still have gaps in this area. Simulation-based first-aid courses can overcome these shortcomings. To better understand the impact of these courses, they need to be researched both in terms of learning outcomes and overall participant perception. We conducted fifteen semi-structured interviews with students who completed the First-Aid Simulation Course or the Practical First-Aid Course. The questions focused on the perception of communication, emotional aspects, teamwork, debriefing and the overall administration of the courses. To find the answers to the research questions, we used the qualitative descriptive study design following the principles of inductive thematic analysis. Our findings confirm that many factors impact the performance of students in crisis situations during a simulation-based first-aid course. Four main themes were identified through which the participants perceived the simulation-based first-aid courses. These were team dynamics, fidelity perception, emotional strain and debriefing.

All professions can benefit — a mixed-methods study on simulation-based teamwork training for operating room teams

BackgroundOperating rooms have become more technically complex due to new advanced procedures, which has increased demands on teamwork in the operating room. In response, team training has been proposed to improve team performance, workplace culture, and patient safety. We developed and delivered a simulation-based team training course for entire professional surgical teams. This type of intervention has been proposed by researchers but has not been widely published. The aims of this intervention study were to examine participants’ reactions to the course in terms of their motivation for the training and their self-efficacy in relation to their performance, as well as their views on transferring the lessons learned in the course to their workplace.MethodsIn a prospective mixed-methods intervention study, operating room professionals participated in a full-day simulation-based teamwork training course. Learning objectives were nontechnical skills, specifically communication and collaboration across the team.Seventy-one staff members representing 5 operating room professions were included, and the average work experience of participants was 6 years.Quantitative data on self-efficacy and situational motivation were collected by questionnaires before and after training. Qualitative data were collected through 5 focus group interviews that took place in direct relation to the courses and included a total of 31 participants. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsAll occupations showed a similar pattern in terms of increases in self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation after the training. Analysis of the qualitative data showed that training in one’s profession and in authentic multiprofessional teams was important factors for motivation. Participating staff described an awareness of undesirable communication barriers in surgical teams that can lead to risks for patients. Systematic training was definitely perceived as a means to reduce barriers and improve communication and collaboration.ConclusionSimulation-based training was equally well received by all professional groups. Our results confirm the feasibility of this type of training for professional teams and promising opportunities for improving teamwork skills. The qualitative data reveal both opportunities and limitations for transferring the learning experiences to the workplace.

Assessing Resident Confidence in Placing a Central Venous Catheter Before and After a Simulation-Based Training Course

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