Simulation Training Research Articles

USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES TO IMPROVE PRACTICAL SKILLS OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS

The aim – to explore the role of information and communication technologies in the professional development of anesthesiologists, focusing on simulation training, electronic medical records, telemedicine, and electronic learning resources. Materials and Methods. A review of scientific literature, along with an analysis of publications in medical journals and databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, to identify key trends and results of using of information and communication technologies in anesthesiology was conducted. Results. Simulation training allows anesthesiologists to practice complex clinical scenarios in a safe environment, significantly enhancing their readiness for real emergency situations. Electronic medical records simplify access to patient data, ensuring the accuracy and continuity of medical information, which is crucial for preoperative preparation and postoperative care. Telemedicine opens new possibilities for consultation and training, allowing anesthesiologists to receive advice from colleagues worldwide and participate in remote learning sessions. Electronic learning resources provide continuous access to the latest knowledge, research, and clinical guidelines, fostering ongoing professional development. Conclusion. The integration of information and communication technologies in the training and practice of anesthesiologists enhances the quality of medical care, patient safety, and the professional development of specialists.

Teaching medical students ultrasound-guided needle aspiration of synthetic cysts: effect of a formalin-embalmed cadaver simulation model

BackgroundStandard training for ultrasound-guided cyst needle aspiration is currently performed on live patients during residency. This practice presents risk of iatrogenic injury to patients and provides a high-stress learning environment for medical trainees. Simulation training using synthetic cysts in a formalin-embalmed cadaver model may allow for realistic, practical, and effective training free from patient risk.MethodsThirty first-year medical students viewed an orientation video, then attended a skills workshop to perform cyst needle aspiration in formalin-embalmed cadaver tissue under ultrasound guidance. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three ultrasound-trained instructor-types which included a medical student, clinical anatomist, or an ultrasound fellowship trained emergency medicine physician. After training, participants underwent a 5-min skills test to assess their ability to drain a synthetic cyst independently. Pre- and post-training self-confidence surveys were administered.ResultsUltrasound images of synthetic cysts in formalin-embalmed tissue were clear and realistic in appearance, and sonographic needle visualization was excellent. Participants took an average of 161.5 s and 1.9 attempts to complete the procedure. Two of the 30 participants could not complete the procedure within the time limit. Participants’ self-reported confidence with respect to all aspects of the procedure significantly increased post-training. Mean confidence scores rose from 1.2 (95% CI 0.96 to 1.39) to 4.4 (95% CI 4.09 to 4.53) (P < 0.0001) Procedure time, number of attempts, performance scores, and self-confidence outcomes were not significantly affected by instructor type.ConclusionsThe use of synthetic cysts in formalin-embalmed cadaveric tissue is feasible, realistic, and efficacious for the teaching of ultrasound-guided needle aspiration to novice medical trainees. This simulation training method can be delivered effectively by multiple instructor types and may allow medical trainees to increase their tactical skill and self-confidence prior to performing ultrasound-guided cyst needle aspiration on live patients.

Analysis of Mixed Teaching Mode of Financial Accounting Comprehensive Simulation and Practical Training Courses in Colleges and Universities

Hybrid teaching has significant advantages in financial accounting courses in colleges and universities, which is conducive to improving students learning interest and promoting ability training. However, there are few studies on hybrid teaching in comprehensive simulation practical training courses of financial accounting. Therefore, this paper analyzes this and finds that it still has problems such as insufficient technical equipment. In order to better play the advantages of mixed teaching, improve the quality of teaching.

Application of AI and VR Synergistic Enhancement in Employment Skills Training: A Virtual Simulation Approach

In recent years, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) technology has opened up new approaches in the field of education and training, especially employment skills training. This study explores the application of artificial intelligence and virtual reality collaborative enhancement technology in virtual simulation training of employment skills. It introduces a comprehensive theoretical framework, including data collection and processing, intelligent analysis using multimodal algorithms, collaborative security mechanisms for AI models, and AI-VR interaction optimization techniques. This study confirms the feasibility and validity of the framework through theoretical analysis, simulation experiments, and expert interviews. The results show that the proposed framework significantly improves the personalization and interactivity of training, ensures data privacy and system stability, and improves the efficiency of intelligent diagnosis. This study provides valuable theoretical support and innovative ideas for the deep integration of VR technology in educational training.

Cardiac autonomic responses in relation to cognitive workload during simulated military flight

Understanding the operator's cognitive workload is crucial for efficiency and safety in human–machine systems. This study investigated how cognitive workload modulates cardiac autonomic regulation during a standardized military simulator flight. Military student pilots completed simulated flight tasks in a Hawk flight simulator. Continuous electrocardiography was recorded to analyze time and frequency domain heart rate variability (HRV). After the simulation, a flight instructor used a standardized method to evaluate student pilot's individual cognitive workload from video-recorded flight simulator data. Results indicated that HRV was able to differentiate flight phases that induced varying levels of cognitive workload; an increasing level of cognitive workload caused significant decreases in many HRV variables, mainly reflecting parasympathetic deactivation of cardiac autonomic regulation. In conclusion, autonomic physiological responses can be used to examine reactions to increased cognitive workload during simulated military flights. HRV could be beneficial in assessing individual responses to cognitive workload and pilot performance during simulator training.

Simulation training improves resident physicians’ confidence in managing first trimester bleeding in the emergency department

First trimester bleeding is commonly encountered in pregnancy and can be potentially life-threatening. Simulation training provides an ideal opportunity for resident medical learners to improve clinical knowledge and gain confidence in managing life-threatening causes of first trimester bleeding in a realistic but safe clinical environment. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of simulation in improving family medicine residents’ confidence and knowledge in identifying and managing first trimester bleeding in the emergency department (ED). The intervention was a two-hour educational simulation focusing on management of unstable first trimester bleeding. Twenty-one family medicine residents (67% female) at the University of Toronto participated in the simulation and completed pre- and post-simulation questionnaires assessing their confidence and knowledge in management of first trimester bleeding. This study demonstrates that simulation training improves resident physicians’ confidence in managing first trimester bleeding in the ED. Additionally, it improves their objective history taking skills. Post-graduate medical programs should consider developing structured simulation, particularly for high-yield clinical cases residents may not otherwise have acute exposure to and are required to be competent in managing.

Using simulated patients to teach de-escalation during Registered Nurses' onboarding

BackgroundWorkplace violence and aggression toward healthcare professionals are concerning trends in the industry, with increasing incidents over the last decade. The COVID-19 pandemic put additional stress on health systems, healthcare workers, patients, and family members. These additional stressors resulted in increased aggressive behaviors. Education and training on de-escalation techniques is paramount to increased safety of health professionals and patients. Nursing education programs and hospital orientation programs often lack de-escalation training. MethodsFrom January to October 2023, 102 nurses participated in a de-escalation simulation encounter. Quantitative and qualitative data was captured via Redcap survey. Facilitators tracked behaviors of the simulated patients and reactions of the nurses, in real-time, using a survey designed by the education team. Participants completed a post-survey which elicited information about prior de-escalation training and application of skills learned during the de-escalation simulation encounter to future practice. ResultsSixty-five percent of new graduate nurses revealed that they had some form of de-escalation training most of which was provided through a lecture (36%) or online module (19%). Following participation in the simulation encounter, 98.5% of participants felt better prepared to manage an escalating patient/family member situation. Structured debriefings identified educational gaps regarding hospital resources, behavioral strategies for averting escalating incidents, methods for maintaining safety, and discreetly seeking assistance. ConclusionThe simulated patient training offered participants an opportunity to apply de-escalation techniques in a safe environment. Targeted de-escalation training using simulated patients increased the authenticity and realism of the immersive experience and resulted in enhanced de-escalation skill development in new hire nurses.

A novel 3D-printed educational model for the training of laparoscopic bile duct Exploration:a pilot study for beginning trainees

BackgroundLaparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is a minimally invasive procedure for the removal of bile duct stones that is often performed by experienced hepatobiliary surgeons; beginners do not easily master this approach. AimTo investigate the effectiveness and practicality of a three-dimensional printed (3DP) anatomical model based on radiographic images in the training of LCBDE techniques and formulate standardized educational workflows. MethodsColored LCBDE training models were produced using 3DP technology. Twenty standardized training trainees were randomly divided into two groups: a 3DP model training group and a traditional laparoscopic simulation training group. Both groups received the same number of teaching hours. After a 4-weeks training course, the trainees’ subjective and objective progress in basic knowledge and manipulations were evaluated and compared. ResultsCompared with traditional laparoscopic simulation, 3DP model simulation training is of great significance in improving trainers' understanding of surgical procedures and cooperation during the operation. Trainees with 3DP models training demonstrated a significant improvement in their understanding of the key points of surgery (χ2 = 6.139, p = 0.013) and skills scores, especially in core procedural steps operation. More importantly, the trainees showed higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence while assisting in the surgery. ConclusionWith the development of 3DP models, improvements in the learning effect for theoretical understanding and practical skills were significant. The present study is the initial educational experience with 3DP models to facilitate the operational capabilities of the trainees for LCBDE.

Barriers to diffusion and implementation of pediatric minimally invasive surgery in Brazil

BackgroundThe main barriers to the broad implementation of pediatric minimally invasive surgery (MIS) are technological, technical, and epistemological barriers, as well as the rarity of certain pathologies. These issues are presumed to be more significant in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to identify and analyze the factors limiting the diffusion and implementation of pediatric MIS in Brazil.MethodsA nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted via an online questionnaire in Brazil from January 2022 to July 2022. The sample was taken by convenience from the population of pediatric surgeons in Brazil. A total of 187 surgeons were included. The collected data were divided into three sections to evaluate technological, technical, and epistemological limitations to pediatric MIS implementation.ResultsAlthough 85% of the participants had previous training, a lack of adequate training was identified as a significant limiting factor, particularly among those who had taken only short courses (42.3% vs. 64.3%, p = 0.033). Only 14% of the participants reported performing MIS for major pediatric procedures. With respect to intracorporeal suturing, 38.1% of the surgeons with extensive training considered it a limiting factor compared with 60.7% (p = 0.029) of those without prior training. Among those without previous training, 61% cited a lack of financial support or encouragement from their department as the reason. Additionally, 65% of the surgeons considered the lack of basic instruments a limiting factor. Although 95% of the participants agreed that simulation training is indispensable, pediatric surgery fellowship programs in Brazil do not include a standardized curriculum or mandatory training in MIS, and only 47% reported providing training space for their current fellows.ConclusionA combination of technological, technical, and epistemological barriers hinders the implementation of pediatric MIS. Despite its limitations, this study serves as a foundational guide for future analysis and overcoming the identified barriers.

Effect of 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation system on the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training of senior dental undergraduates

BackgroundThe objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation system on the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training of senior dental undergraduates.MethodsThe 3D printed teeth were manufactured based on the micro-CT data of an extracted lower first molar. Ninety-eight senior dental undergraduate students were required to finish the access cavity preparation of lower first molar within 20 min on plastic and 3D printed teeth on the manikin system as well as on a virtual simulation machine respectively with randomly selected sequences. Expert dentists scored the operated teeth. The scores from the virtual simulation system were also recorded. All the scores were analyzed and compared. Following the procedure, two questionnaires were sent to students to further evaluate the feelings and optimal training sequence.ResultsNo significant differences were found between plastic and 3D printed teeth scores, while virtual simulation achieved a valid/invalid area removal ratio of 96.86% ± 5.08% and 3.97% ± 1.85%, respectively. Most students found plastic teeth training the easiest and favored the three-training combination (36.36%). 71.42% of the students thought the virtual simulation training should be put at the first place of the three trainings. Over 80% of students agreed with incorporating 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation into their routine training courses. In addition, the general advantages and disadvantages of the virtual simulation system and 3D printed teeth training received almost equal recognition by students.ConclusionsVirtual simulation system training + plastic teeth training + 3D printed teeth training might be the optimal training sequence. Virtual simulation system training could not completely replace the traditional training methods on the manikin system at the moment. With further modifications, 3D printed teeth could be expected to replace the plastic teeth for the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training.

Impact of Live Tissue Training on Provider Confidence for Operative Trauma Management.

Readiness of military health care providers is essential to maintain a prepared fighting force and remains a central issue for today's military. Maintaining skills regarding operative management of trauma is becoming more difficult if not located at an urban trauma center. Live tissue training may be used to practice skills in a facility that does not have exposure to high acuity trauma. The goal of our live tissue skills course is to train health care providers and ancillary staff in the management of various injury complexes and improve confidence and familiarity with management using a porcine model. A live tissue skills course using a porcine model was offered to surgical residents, attendings, and operating room technicians. Before completing the course, each participant completed a survey assessing comfort level, previous training experiences, and deployments. Operative management was simulated with a standardized sequence of abdominal and thoracic injuries. After the course, each participant then completed a survey assessing comfort level, benefit of the course, and comparison to inanimate simulation training. Survey information was obtained via participant completion of a multiple-choice confidential questionnaire. Responses were collected from 34 participants at our institution. Average abdominal trauma comfort increased from 2.79 to 3.73, with no participants reporting feeling not comfortable at all post-lab. Average thoracic trauma comfort increased from 2.47 to 3.48, with one participant reporting feeling not comfortable at all post-lab. Overall, 85% of participants reported the course to be very beneficial in improving their knowledge, 83% reported the course to be very beneficial compared to inanimate simulators, and 92% reported high fidelity of the live tissue training course. Perceived as highly beneficial, live tissue training increased comfort with operative trauma management by surgical residents, attendings, and technicians supporting continued utilization. Further evaluation of live tissue courses would be advantageous in assessing surgical skill improvement, including comparison with simulation training.

Improved Code Team Performance and Outcomes After Implementation of Moderate Fidelity In Situ Simulation in a Pediatric Cardiac Acute Care Unit.

Children with cardiac disease suffer higher rates of in-hospital cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest outside of the intensive care unit (ICU) is an infrequent event, which is a threat for suboptimal code team performance. Shorter time to the first epinephrine dose during cardiac arrest has been associated with improved survival and neurologic outcomes. Moderate fidelity in situ simulation training was implemented in the pediatric cardiac acute care unit (PCACU) to improve code team performance in August 2015. A small interprofessional team of simulation facilitators was developed that included nurses, physicians, and advanced practice providers. The primary outcome was time to first epinephrine dose in pulseless electrical activity (PEA) scenarios. Time to epinephrine of all simulation exercises, and actual cardiac arrests, that occurred in the PCACU were reviewed through May 2022. A total of 72 simulations were performed and 42 (58%) were PEA scenarios. A center line shift was observed for time to epinephrine for simulated PEA cardiac arrests (from 5 to 3min). After implementation of simulation exercises, a center line shift was observed for time to epinephrine for actual cardiac arrests in the PCACU (from 8 to 2min). Survival to hospital discharge after cardiac arrest improved after implementation of the training (0% vs. 64%, p = 0.02). Code team performance, as measured by time to epinephrine, can be improved following implementation of in situ simulation exercises in a pediatric cardiac acute care unit. Optimizing code team performance may contribute to improved patient outcomes.

The effectiveness of driving simulator training on driving skills and safety in young novice drivers: A systematic review of interventions

Introduction: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of driving simulator training on simulated/on-road driving skills and safety in young novice drivers. Method: Searches were performed in Embase, Global Health, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, and on Google advanced, Google Scholar, and the Transport Research International Documentation websites. A total of 1,630 unique sources (titles and abstracts) were screened by two reviewers independently with 99 full-text articles reviewed for inclusion. Studies were included if they were a primary driving simulator intervention study that consisted of a randomized controlled trial, quasi-experimental, prospective cohort, and case-control design, published in English between January 1, 2010 and January 26, 2024. Results: The review included 15 studies published in 2010–2022 (study sample size ranged from 30 to 183,197). Findings showed that driving simulator training (compared to control conditions) can immediately improve simulated driving skills (e.g., adjustment to stimuli, lane maintenance, and speed regulation), although it was unclear whether simulator training can improve on-road driving skills or safety, immediately or longitudinally. Studies showed low quality of evidence with increased risks of selection bias, confounding factors, and type I errors influencing findings. Practical Applications: Since it is not known whether driving simulator training has short-term or long-term benefits on drivers’ real-world driving skills or safety, it should not replace any training offered in driver education programs. However, driving simulator training can be included in driver education programs to supplement the in-class and on-road training. Conclusions: The quality of evidence in this review shows low confidence on whether findings accurately reflect true effects on driving skills or safety. Further research should enhance the quality of evidence and demonstrate the transfer effects of driving simulator training to valid measures of real-world driving before recommending any integration of simulator training into standard practice.

SEDATION AND LARYNGOSPASM IN PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Introduction: The use of anesthetics in pediatrics is essential for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The incidence of post-anesthetic respiratory complications is often avoidable with appropriate intervention. Laryngospasm, a reflex obstruction of the vocal cords, is more common in children. Objective: To discuss respiratory complications, with an emphasis on laryngospasm, during the use of anesthetics in pediatric procedures. Method: The Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE, via PUBMED), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases were used. Seven articles were selected that met the systematic review criteria. Results: The incidence of laryngospasm is 0.87% in adults, 1.7% in children, and 2.82% in babies. In children, it occurs mainly during emergence from anesthesia. Risk factors include inadequate anesthesia, respiratory infections and multiple attempts at airway management. Drug combinations such as propofol, ketamine and fentanyl are used to minimize complications. Preventive measures include clearing secretions and adequate depth of anesthesia. Drugs such β2-adrenergic agonists, such as albuterol, are used to reduce respiratory resistance during intubation. Training strategies with low-cost simulators are effective for managing difficult airways in pediatrics. In pediatric surgery, the laryngeal mask is preferred to endotracheal intubation to reduce respiratory complications. Studies indicate that positive communication between anesthesia teams improves performance in critical situations. Conclusion: Laryngospasm is a serious complication in pediatric anesthesia, more common in children due to their anatomy and sensitive reflexes. Risk factors include respiratory infections, asthma, smoking, gastroesophageal reflux, and superficial anesthesia. Prevention involves the proper use of anesthetics, cleaning secretions and careful monitoring. Medications such as propofol, ketamine, and albuterol can reduce adverse effects. Simulator training and effective communication in anesthesia teams improve clinical performance. With proper management, most episodes are resolved without long-term complications.

Análisis de prácticas y protocolos de formación de equipos obstétricos en distocia de hombros en hospitales españoles

IntroductionShoulder dystocia (SD) is an emergency with risks for mother and newborn. The training of professionals in its resolution is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality and simulation is considered a useful strategy to improve the training of obstetric teams. The aim of this study was to determine the training status of obstetric interprofessional teams in the resolution of shoulder dystocia in hospitals belonging to the Spanish Obstetric Safety Group (GESO). Materials and methodsA specific survey was carried out between June and December 2023 in hospitals belonging to the GESO group to assess training in SD, addressing protocols, case registry and training programs. ResultsOf the 71 hospitals surveyed, 94,4% responded. These hospitals, mostly public (88%) performed 121,141 deliveries during 2022, representing 37,5% of births in Spain. The incidence of SD was 1.79% and the incidence of obstetric brachial palsy at discharge was 1,08/1000 vaginal deliveries. Regarding the management of SD, 85,1% of the hospitals follow a specific protocol and 88,1% record these cases. Regarding simulation training, 55,2% have programs, 35% of which are voluntary and annual, 5.4% are mandatory and biannual and 2.7% are mandatory and annual. 73,1% have accredited instructors (219 in total between midwives and obstetricians) and 85,1% have their own simulators. ConclusionThe survey has revealed hitherto unavailable information on the training of obstetric teams and on the frequency and management of SD. Protocols exist in practically all the hospitals surveyed and the number of available SD simulation instructors in the country is noteworthy. Nevertheless, current training programs have room for improvement in order to meet international standards.

The Use of Smartphone-Based Highly Realistic MCI Training as an Adjunct to Traditional Training Methods.

Training for mass casualty incident (MCI) response is critical to ensure that resource allocation and treatment priorities limit preventable mortality. Previous research has investigated the use of immersive virtual environments as an alternative to high fidelity MCI training, which is expensive and logistically challenging to implement. While these have demonstrated positive early results, they still require complex technology deployment, dedicated training facilities, and significant time from instructors and facilitators. This study explores the feasibility of a smartphone-based application for trauma care training and MCI triage to fill the gap between classroom learning and high-fidelity simulation. The goals of this investigation were to evaluate clinician perceptions of a virtual MCI training simulator's usability, acceptability, fidelity, functionality, and pacing. This study used a smartphone-based training simulation called Extensible Field and Evacuation Care Training in a Virtual Environment (EFECTIVE), which presents virtual patient scenarios in a gamified, but visually high-fidelity environment. A total of 21 participants were recruited as a convenience sample of medical students, paramedics, nurses, and emergency medicine resident and attending physicians at University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, an urban tertiary care medical center. Participants completed a brief tutorial and then performed a series of virtual patient scenarios and 1 MCI scenario on the simulator, each of which was 5 minutes in duration. Then, each participant completed a survey assessing the perceived usability, acceptability, fidelity, functionality, and pacing of the virtual training simulator. The research protocol was approved by the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Institutional Review Board. 48% of participants disagreed that a virtual simulator could completely replace live MCI training, though 71% agreed that app-based simulations could effectively supplement live MCI training and 67% felt that they could be used to learn how to order medical interventions in care under fire scenarios. 80% of participants agreed that the simulation could be used to practice MCI triage and to gain experience with coordinating movement of casualties to casualty collection points. 67% of participants believed that use of virtual simulators would increase their MCI preparedness. 76% agreed that the clinical cases depicted were medically realistic and that the clinical cases presented accurately represented the scenarios described. In addition, despite being presented on a smartphone as opposed to virtual reality, 62% of participants rated the experience immersive. This study provides encouraging evidence that easy to deploy smartphone-based simulations may be an effective way to supplement MCI and care under fire training. Although the study is limited by a small sample size, there was strong agreement among participants from a wide variety of emergency medicine roles that such a simulation could train core topics associated with MCI triage. Because app-based simulations are easily deployable and can be executed quickly and frequently, they could be used as a more flexible training model compared to large scale live or virtual reality-based simulations. The results of this investigation also indicate that a sufficient level of medical realism can be achieved without live simulation.

Artificial intelligence facilitates the potential of simulator training: An innovative laparoscopic surgical skill validation system using artificial intelligence technology.

The development of innovative solutions, such as simulator training and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tutoring systems, has significantly changed surgical trainees' environments to receive the intraoperative instruction necessary for skill acquisition. In this study, we developed a new objective assessment system using AI for forceps manipulation in a surgical training simulator. Laparoscopic exercises were recorded using an iPad®, which provided top and side views. Top-view movies were used for AI learning of forceps trajectory. Side-view movies were used as supplementary information to assess the situation. We used an AI-based posture estimation method, DeepLabCut (DLC), to recognize and positionally measure the forceps in the operating field. Tracking accuracy was quantitatively evaluated by calculating the pixel differences between the annotation points and the points predicted by the AI model. Tracking stability at specified key points was verified to assess the AI model. We selected a random sample to evaluate tracking accuracy quantitatively. This sample comprised 5% of the frames not used for AI training from the complete set of video frames. We compared the AI detection positions and correct positions and found an average pixel discrepancy of 9.2. The qualitative evaluation of the tracking stability was good at the forceps hinge; however, forceps tip tracking was unstable during rotation. The AI-based forceps tracking system can visualize and evaluate laparoscopic surgical skills. Improvements in the proposed system and AI self-learning are expected to enable it to distinguish the techniques of expert and novice surgeons accurately. This system is a useful tool for surgeon training and assessment.

Using Full Dive Virtual Reality to Operationalize Warfighter Resilience: From Proof of Concept and Usability of Hardware and Software to Upcoming Integrated Psychological Skills Training.

Modern warfare operations are volatile, highly complex environments, placing immense physiological, psychological, and cognitive demands on the warfighter. To maximize cognitive performance and warfighter resilience and readiness, training must address psychological stress to enhance performance. Resilience in the face of adversity is fundamentally rooted in an individual's psychophysiological stress response and optimized through decreased susceptibility to the negative impact of trauma exposure. The current project aims to optimize warfighter expertise, resilience, adaptability, and performance by utilizing a validated Full Dive Virtual Reality (FDVR) training platform to provide high-fidelity, safe, and scalable, controlled stress exposure in highly realistic simulated training scenarios with the most advanced, immersive technology available. Following Institutional Review Board approval and consent, 2 operators were fitted with high-fidelity virtual reality headsets with hand and eye tracking, full-body haptic feedback suits, a 360° omnidirectional treadmill, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared biometric monitors. Following acclimation, operators were placed in an industrial fire scenario and instructed to respond as a firefighter and paramedic, to search for and resuscitate any casualties, extinguish the fire, and exfiltrate safely. Following initial acclimation and after each demonstration (n = 2), 3 semistructured interviews asked operators their perceptions and experiences related to FDVR, focusing on usability, feasibility, and safety. Biometric data were continuously recorded using the Caretaker Medical VitalStream. Proof-of-concept (POC) testing proved that the FDVR training platform is usable, safe, and feasible. It creates an immersive environment with physiological responses to mimic realistic Mass Casualty Events (MCEs). Using a case study approach, transcript data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three major themes emerged: Sensory deficits reduced realism, but sensory feedback improved fidelity, vestibular discord affected the virtual reality experience but only when the system did not respond naturally to operator movement after acclimation, and movement accommodations were made by operators to enhance usability, especially for fine motor movements. Biometric data analysis correlated timestamps from the VitalStream unit with operator responses to stress-inducing events (i.e., explosions, fires, and a deceased victim). Both operators exhibited significant physiological responses, including elevated heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure, particularly following explosions, encountering fire, and encountering the deceased victim within the training environment. The FDVR training platform overcomes the obstacles of in-person simulation training and provides the closest to real-life experience available. It will allow warfighters to train with their teams in immersive environments that replicate the conditions in which they are expected to perform their duties. The POC demonstrated that physiological responses can be mapped to scenario events to allow tracking of stress responses, cognitive load, as well as performance, and decision-making of the warfighter. The POC only involved 2 operators, but served to prove that the platform was safe and effective. Future testing plans to include 200 warfighters in operational teams of 10 to 12 to further validate the training effectiveness of the FDVR platform.

Survey of Current Simulation Based Training in the US Military Health System.

Simulation-based medical training has been shown to be effective and is widely used in civilian hospitals; however, it is unclear how widely and how effectively simulation is utilized in the U.S. Military Health System (MHS). The current operational state of medical simulation in the MHS is unknown, and there remains a need for a system-wide assessment of whether and how the advances in simulation-based medical training are employed to meet the evolving needs of the present-day warfighter. Understanding the types of skills and methods used within simulation programs across the enterprise is important data for leaders as they plan for the future in terms of curriculum development and the investment of resources. The aim of the present study is to survey MHS simulation programs in order to determine the prevalence of skills taught, the types of learners served, and the most common methodologies employed in this worldwide health care system. A cross-sectional survey of simulation activities was distributed to the medical directors of all 93 simulation programs in the MHS. The survey was developed by the authors based on lists of critical wartime skills published by the medical departments of the US Army, Navy, and Air Force. Respondents were asked to indicate the types of learners trained at their program, which of the 82 unique skills included in the survey are trained at their site, and for each skill the modalities of simulation used, i.e., mannequin, standardized patients, part task trainers, augmented/virtual reality tools, or cadaver/live tissue. Complete survey responses were obtained from 75 of the 93 (80%) MHS medical simulation training programs. Across all skills included in the survey, those most commonly taught belonged predominantly to the categories of medic skills and nursing skills. Across all sites, the most common category of learner was the medic/corpsman (95% of sites), followed by nurses (87%), physicians (83%), non-medical combat lifesavers (59%), and others (28%) that included on-base first responders, law enforcement, fire fighters, and civilians. The skills training offered by programs included most commonly the tasks associated with medics/corpsmen (97%) followed by nursing (81%), advanced provider (77%), and General Medical Officer (GMO) skills (47%). The survey demonstrated that the most common skills taught were all related to point of injury combat casualty care and addressed the most common causes of death on the battlefield. The availability of training in medic skills, nursing skills, and advanced provider skills were similar in small, medium, and large programs. However, medium and small programs were less likely to deliver training for advanced providers and GMOs compared to larger programs. Overall, this study found that simulation-based medical training in the MHS is focused on medic and nursing skills, and that large programs are more likely to offer training for advanced providers and GMOs. Potential gaps in the availability of existing training are identified as over 50% of skills included in the nursing, advanced provider, and GMO skill categories are not covered by at least 80% of sites serving those learners.

Endotracheal Intubation Performance in Novices: Comparing the Training Effect Resulting From Two Airway Management Training Simulators.

Between 2011 and 2014, the Combat Casualty Training Consortium research study sought to evaluate all aspects of combat casualty care, including mortality, with a special focus on the incidence and causes of potentially preventable deaths among American combat fatalities. This study identified a major training gap in critical airway management. Because of the high rate of morbidity and mortality associated with poor or incorrect airway management, an effort to address this training gap was necessary. This experiment compared the training using the Advanced Joint Airway Management System, a novel high-fidelity airway simulator, relative to one of the most utilized simulators for endotracheal intubation (ETI) via a parallel group randomized control trial design. Before training, participants (n = 19) attempted an ETI on a cadaver using direct laryngoscopy. Performance during the attempt was recorded and scored by trained blinded raters. Participants were then randomly allocated to either novel or conventional training. Post-training, participants completed a second ETI under the same parameters. Analysis was completed via 2 × 2 mixed analysis of variance for (1) ETI Score, (2) Errors, (3) Critical Failures, and (4) Duration, across both the pre- and post-training tests and between the two groups. A priori power analysis required a total sample size of 84 participants in this experimental design. Consequently, this study is under-powered to reach statistical significance. Scores for all trainees did improve with training, yet analyses did not reveal a difference in overall ETI score between the novel and conventional training group, at baseline or at the post-training test (P = .249). The Advanced Joint Airway Management System simulator presents a training effect that is comparable to the conventional training model. However, given this study's small sample size, these results must be considered preliminary and further research is merited to draw firm conclusions about its impact on trainee performance. Future studies engaging larger cohorts of trainees and exploring the other capabilities of the Advanced Joint Airway Management System (cricothyroidotomy, needle chess decompression) are needed to further examine the educational potential of this novel airway management training system.