Assessment of long-term knowledge retention following single-day simulation training for uncommon but critical obstetrical events

Authors: Vadnais, Mary A.; Dodge, Laura E.; Awtrey, Christopher S.; Ricciotti, Hope A.; Golen, Toni H.; Hacker, Michele R.

Source: Journal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Volume 25, Number 9, September 2012 , pp. 1640-1645(6)

Publisher: Informa Healthcare

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $33.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Objective: The objectives were to determine (i) whether simulation training results in short-term and long-term improvement in the management of uncommon but critical obstetrical events and (ii) to determine whether there was additional benefit from annual exposure to the workshop. Methods: Physicians completed a pretest to measure knowledge and confidence in the management of eclampsia, shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage and vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery. They then attended a simulation workshop and immediately completed a posttest. Residents completed the same posttests 4 and 12 months later, and attending physicians completed the posttest at 12 months. Physicians participated in the same simulation workshop 1 year later and then completed a final posttest. Scores were compared using paired t-tests. Results: Physicians demonstrated improved knowledge and comfort immediately after simulation. Residents maintained this improvement at 1 year. Attending physicians remained more comfortable managing these scenarios up to 1 year later; however, knowledge retention diminished with time. Repeating the simulation after 1 year brought additional improvement to physicians. Conclusion: Simulation training can result in short-term and contribute to long-term improvement in objective measures of knowledge and comfort level in managing uncommon but critical obstetrical events. Repeat exposure to simulation training after 1 year can yield additional benefits.

Keywords: Long-term follow up; medical education; obstetric emergencies; simulation

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/14767058.2011.648971

Affiliations: 1: 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA

Publication date: 2012-09-01

More about this publication?