Evaluating training for a simulated team in complex whole procedure simulations in the endovascular suite

Area of Science:

• Medical simulation
• Surgical training
• Teamwork in healthcare

Background:

• Complex procedures require effective interventional team (IT) collaboration.
• Simulators enhance technical skills but recruiting real teams is challenging and actors are costly.
• This study explored using medical students and trainees as a simulated IT for endovascular suite procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a training program for a simulated interventional team (IT) in vascular surgery.
• To assess the feasibility and psychological fidelity of using trainees as a simulated IT.
• To determine if this simulation approach can enhance understanding of teamwork and roles.

Main Methods:

• A training program was developed and implemented for a simulated IT comprising vascular unit trainees.
• Participants (simulated IT members) rated the achievement of program objectives and simulation realism.
• Researchers collected field notes to identify program strengths and weaknesses.

Main Results:

• Seven vascular unit members completed the training; learning objectives were mostly met.
• Nineteen simulations involving 13 interventionalists were conducted with moderate realism.
• Simulated IT members reported improved understanding of teamwork and endovascular suite roles.

Conclusions:

• A simulated interventional team (IT) is a feasible approach for training.
• This method provides authentic psychological fidelity, complementing physical simulation fidelity.
• The approach shows potential for enhancing interventionalist training, knowledge, and skills for trainees and students.