Simulation in healthcare : journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare
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: We describe a new simulator for teaching transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and present the results of a preliminary evaluation of the simulator's realism and usefulness for training. ⋯ : The simulator we describe can be used as a training tool for TRUS. It enables training with different patient cases and minimizes the burden to patients. Simulation of prostate biopsies should be added to increase the model's usefulness.
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Encouraged by evidence suggesting that simulation-based educational programs can translate to improved patient care, interest and investment in medical simulation have grown considerably in the past decade. Despite such growth, simulation is still a developing field, and little is known of the perceived needs for simulation training among practicing clinicians. This study describes medical simulation interests among clinicians in a pediatric health care system. ⋯ For adult learners, educational experiences should be targeted to the learners' perceived needs but should also address unrecognized deficits. Collectively, physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists were most interested in participating in simulations addressing "codes" (emergency resuscitations) and airway management; these perceptions may provide a focus for designing simulation events that appeal to diverse learning styles. Prior experience with medical simulation seems to increase interest in subsequent simulation activities and offers the optimistic possibility that first-hand experience with simulation may help overcome structural and cultural barriers. Future research should seek to better understand potential obstacles for the participation of healthcare providers, especially physicians, in simulation-enhanced learning.
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Behavioral skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and leadership are critically important to successful outcomes in patient care, especially in resuscitation situations where correct decisions must be made rapidly. However, historically, these important skills have rarely been specifically addressed in learning programs directed at healthcare professionals. Not only have most healthcare professionals had little or no formal education and training in applying behavioral skills to their patient care activities but also many of those serving as instructors and content experts for training programs have few resources available that clearly illustrate what these skills are and how they may be used in the context of real clinical situations. ⋯ The movie Apollo 13 depicts in a highly realistic manner the events that occurred during the flight, including the actions of the crew in space and those in Mission Control in Houston. Three scenes from this movie are described in this article; each serves as a useful example for healthcare professionals of the importance of simulation-based learning and the application of behavioral skills to successful resolution of crises. This article is meant to serve as a guide as to how this movie and other similar media may be used for facilitated group or independent learning, providing appropriate context and clear examples of key points to be discussed.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Simulation training and its effect on long-term resident performance in central venous catheterization.
Simulation is a safe alternative to practicing procedural skills on patients. However, few published studies have examined the long-term effect of simulation technology on bedside procedures such as central venous catheter (CVC) insertion. ⋯ A CVC insertion simulation course improves procedural skills. These skills decline over time, and simulation conferred no long-term additional benefit over traditional methods of procedural teaching.