Impact of virtual simulation vs. Video refresher training on NRP simulation performance: a randomized controlled trial

J Perinatol. 2024 Aug 28. doi: 10.1038/s41372-024-02100-4. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Objective: To assess the impact of NRP virtual simulations (eSim™), video or no refresher training, on simulation performance, six months after a provider course; and to evaluate eSim™ acceptability.

Study design: In this multi-site randomized controlled trial, NRP providers from four U.S. institutions were randomized to receive refreshers every two months with NRP eSim™, NRP resuscitation video, or no refresher (control). Simulation performance was assessed immediately after an NRP course and six months later.

Result: 248 participants completed the baseline simulation and 148 completed the six-month follow-up simulation. The majority (71%) of subjects had a decline in resuscitation skills at 6 months. There were no differences in performance between the study groups, but participants who reported using either the video or eSim™ had less decline in performance at the 6-month follow-up (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: NRP refreshers with either eSim™ or NRP video may mitigate the decline in resuscitation skills after training.