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Fear of causing harm: use of mannequin-based simulation to decrease student anxiety prior to interacting with female
Carla M Pugh1, Eniola T Obadina, Kofi A Aidoo
1Department of Surgery, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 201 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611-2908, USA. drpugh@northwestern.edu
Teaching and Learning in Medicine
|March 31, 2009
Summary
Mannequin simulators can increase medical student comfort with the female pelvic exam. This simulation training is recommended before students interact with teaching associates to improve learning experiences.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Simulation-Based Learning
- Gynecological Examination Training
Background:
- Limited research exists on mannequin trainers for preparing students to interact with teaching associates.
- Anxiety regarding the female pelvic exam is a significant barrier to medical student education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of mannequin-based simulation on student comfort with the female pelvic exam.
- To assess changes in student comfort levels before and after a simulation curriculum.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 344 first-year medical students.
- Comfort levels regarding the female pelvic exam were assessed pre- and post-simulation curriculum.
Main Results:
- Fear of causing harm was the primary source of student anxiety for the pelvic exam.
- The mannequin simulation significantly increased student comfort (p < .001).
- Most students moved from "very uncomfortable" to "somewhat comfortable" with the exam post-simulation.
Conclusions:
- Mannequin-based simulators are beneficial for enhancing student comfort with the female pelvic exam.
- Simulation training should precede clinical encounters with teaching associates for improved educational outcomes.
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