Simulation in healthcare : journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare
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This article presents a simulation architecture for a patient tracking system simulator to study caregiver performance in emergency departments (EDs). The architecture integrates discrete event simulation modeling with clinical patient information. Evaluation components for electronic patient tracking system displays are also described. ⋯ Modular design of the patient-tracking system display simulation helps adaptation for different studies to support various interface features and interaction types. The methodology described in this work exploits the benefits of discrete event simulation to iteratively design and test technologies such as electronic patient tracking systems and allows assessment of human performance measures.
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Interventions to reduce preventable complications such as catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) can also decrease hospital costs. However, little is known about the cost-effectiveness of simulation-based education. The aim of this study was to estimate hospital cost savings related to a reduction in CRBSI after simulation training for residents. ⋯ A simulation-based educational intervention in CVC insertion was highly cost-effective. These results suggest that investment in simulation training can produce significant medical care cost savings.
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Multifaceted approaches using simulation and human factors methods may optimize in-hospital sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) response. The Arrhythmia Simulation/Cardiac Event Nursing Training-Automated External Defibrillator phase (ASCENT-AED) study used in situ medical simulation to compare traditional and AED-supplemented SCA first-responder models. ⋯ In situ simulation can provide useful information, both anticipated and unexpected, to guide decisions about proposed defibrillation technologies and SCA response models for in-hospital resuscitation system design and education before implementation.
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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.
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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.