Training future anesthesiologists in obstetric care

Simulation-based training in obstetric anesthesia: an update

In this update we explore the current applications of simulation in obstetric anesthesia, describe what is known regarding its impacts on care and consider the different settings in which simulation programs are required. We will introduce practical strategies, such as cognitive aids and communication tools, that can be applied in the obstetric setting and share ways in which a program might apply these tools. Finally, we provide a list of common obstetric emergencies essential for a program's curriculum and common teamwork pitfalls to address within a comprehensive obstetric anesthesia simulation program.

Simulation in obstetric anesthesia: an update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Simulation training (crew resource management training and scenario training) has become an important tool in the education of anesthesiologists. This review summarizes recent research performed in this area, focusing more specifically on obstetric anesthesia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Simulation training is becoming more integrated in the modern education of anesthesiologists. Research regarding the most effective way to perform simulation training in terms of learning outcomes and long-term skill retention has started to appear. Scenarios which are played independently and that allow for simulated mortality, as well as relaxation techniques before debriefing might have positive effects in this regard. Furthermore, simulation has been investigated as a tool to improve patient safety in low-resource settings. In addition, simulation training in the domain of obstetrics has been rapidly expanding and has an important role in this field of medicine as well.

SUMMARY

Simulation training has acquired a central role in modern education of anesthesiologists. Further research regarding elements to optimize simulation training in terms of learning outcomes and long-term skill retention is desirable. In addition, little data exist concerning the effect of simulation training on possible improvement of patient outcomes in anesthesia.

Recent advances of simulation in obstetric anesthesia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Simulation training in obstetric anesthesia has become widespread in recent years. Simulations are used to train staff and trainees, assess and improve team performance, and evaluate the work environment. This review summarizes current research in these categories.

RECENT FINDINGS

Simulation to improve individual technical skills has focused on induction of general anesthesia for emergent cesarean delivery, an infrequently encountered scenario by anesthesia trainees. Low- and high-fidelity simulation devices for the learning and practicing neuraxial and non-neuraxial procedures have been described, and both are equally effective. The use of checklists in obstetric emergencies has become common as and post-scenario debriefing techniques have improved. Although participant task performance improves, whether participants retain learned skills or whether simulation improves patient outcomes has not yet been established. Tools to assess teamwork during simulation have been developed, but none have been rigorously validated. In-situ vs. offsite simulations do not differ in effectiveness.

SUMMARY

Simulation allows for practice of tasks and teamwork in a controlled manner. There is little data whether simulation improves patient outcomes and metrics to predict the long-term retention of skills by simulation participants have not been developed.