Acquisition of Competencies by Medical Students in Neurological Emergency Simulation Environments Using High Fidelity Patient Simulators

J Med Syst. 2016 Jun;40(6):139. doi: 10.1007/s10916-016-0496-3. Epub 2016 Apr 22.

Abstract

The training of medical students demands practice of skills in scenarios as close as possible to real ones that on one hand ensure acquisition of competencies, and on the other, avoid putting patients at risk. This study shows the practicality of using high definition mannequins (SimMan 3G) in scenarios of first attention in neurological emergencies so that medical students at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Salamanca could acquire specific and transversal competencies. The repetition of activities in simulation environments significantly facilitates the acquisition of competencies by groups of students (p < 00.5). The greatest achievements refer to skills whereas the competencies that demand greater integration of knowledge seem to need more time or new sessions. This is what happens with the competencies related to the initial diagnosis, the requesting of tests and therapeutic approaches, which demand greater theoretical knowledge.

Keywords: High fidelity patient simulator; Learning setting; Mannequin; Medical education; Simulation.

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Competence / standards*
  • Emergencies*
  • Humans
  • Manikins
  • Nervous System Diseases / therapy*
  • Simulation Training*
  • Students, Medical*