Simulation in healthcare : journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare
-
Moderate capability simulators such as Laerdal's SimMan allow for the operator to control the vital signs presented on the monitor. However, the presence of the mannequin simulator may not always be needed to achieve specific teaching goals. In this report, we describe the use of the SimMan software to generate, control, and project vital signs on a projector screen, with an appearance identical to that of its normal companion monitor. ⋯ Laerdal SimMan software can be used to create a dynamic and interactive presentation tool for classroom learning.
-
Decision support tools are an important adjunct to medical resuscitation. We initiated a study comparing the use of the traditional code book method versus a computerized decision support system. ⋯ Using simulation, numerous deficiencies were revealed regarding resident physician dysrhythmia knowledge. Most importantly, the rate of incorrect dysrhythmia recognition required discontinuation of the initial study, reorganization, and implementation of a modified study to achieve the study purpose.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Prospective randomized trial of simulation versus didactic teaching for obstetrical emergencies.
The objective of this study was to determine whether simulation was more effective than traditional didactic instruction to train crisis management skills to labor and delivery teams. ⋯ In an academic training program, didactic and simulation-trained groups showed equal results on written test scores. Simulation-trained teams had superior performance scores when tested in a labor and delivery drill. Simulation should be used to enhance obstetrical emergency training in resident education.
-
Comparative Study
Perception of realism during mock resuscitations by pediatric housestaff: the impact of simulated physical features.
Physical signs that can be seen, heard, and felt are one of the cardinal features that convey realism in patient simulations. In critically ill children, physical signs are relied on for clinical management despite their subjective nature. Current technology is limited in its ability to effectively simulate some of these subjective signs; at the same time, data supporting the educational benefit of simulated physical features as a distinct entity are lacking. We surveyed pediatric housestaff as to the realism of scenarios with and without simulated physical signs. ⋯ PALS scenarios were rated as highly realistic by pediatric residents. Slight differences existed between subjects exposed to simulated physical features and those not exposed to them; these differences were most pronounced in scenarios involving pulselessness. Specific physical features were rated as more important than others by subjects. Data from these surveys may be informative in designing future simulation technology.