Correlation between medical management and teamwork in multidisciplinary high-fidelity obstetrics simulations

Impact of a virtual reality-based simulation training for shoulder dystocia on human and technical skills among caregivers: a randomized-controlled trial

This study analyzed the adherence to the modified Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) algorithm (HELP-RER) for handling shoulder dystocia (SD) using a virtual reality (VR) training modality. Secondary outcomes were improvements in the post-training diagnosis-to-delivery time, human skills factors (HuFSHI), and perceived task-load index (TLX). Prospective, case-control, single-blind, 1:1 randomized crossover study. Participants were shown a 360° VR video of SD management. The control group was briefed theoretically. Both groups underwent HuFSHI and HELP-RER score assessments at baseline and after the manikin-based training. The TLX questionnaire was then administered. After a washout phase of 12 weeks, we performed a crossover, and groups were switched. There were similar outcomes between groups during the first training session. However, after crossover, the control group yielded significantly higher HELP-RER scores [7 vs. 6.5; (p = 0.01)], with lower diagnosis-to-delivery-time [85.5 vs. 99 s; (p = 0.02)], and TLX scores [57 vs. 68; (p = 0.04)]. In the multivariable linear regression analysis, VR training was independently associated with improved HELP-RER scores (p = 0.003). The HuFSHI scores were comparable between groups. Our data demonstrated the feasibility of a VR simulation training of SD management for caregivers. Considering the drawbacks of common high-fidelity trainings, VR-based simulations offer new perspectives.

Five actions for five people: emergency cesarean section protocol

OBJECTIVE

The scope of this work is to evaluate an operative protocol for emergency C-section to improve teamwork and reduce surgical setup time.

METHODS

Sixty-six health care operators working together in the delivery ward (gynecologists, midwives, anesthesiologists) simulated an emergency scenario applying a "five actions for each operator" protocol. For each simulation, the decision to delivery interval was considered and the perception of each operator as a team worker was analyzed with specific tests.

RESULTS

The "five actions for five people" protocol significantly reduces the decision to delivery interval (p < 0.001) for emergency C-section. At the same time, a simple and codified scheme improves communication among team members, avoids overlapping roles. Indeed, all the operators become more aware of being helpful to the team (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The use of a standardized, simple, and immediately usable protocol improves the performance of the delivery room team in terms of the urgency and quality of the operator's participation in the event. Procedures of this type should be favored within emergency obstetric settings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CEAVNO 19-01-23. Local ethical Committee (COMITATO ETICO REGIONALE PER LA SPERIMENTAZIONE CLINICA - Sezione autonoma Area Vasta Nord Ovest -CEAVNO) approved this study as simulation training study. All the operators participated voluntary during their working time.