[Paediatric simulation today and tomorrow. Perspectives and concepts].

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Simulation Technology

Context:

• Critically ill newborns, infants, and children present rare but significant challenges for medical teams.
• Effective emergency treatment necessitates both technical and non-technical skills.
• Pediatric simulators bridge theoretical knowledge and practical experience in medical training.

Purpose:

• To assess the current status of pediatric simulation in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
• To identify the availability and types of pediatric simulators in the region.
• To understand the training backgrounds of instructors and the emphasis on non-technical skills.

Summary:

• Twenty-four centers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland utilize 39 pediatric simulators (8 neonatal, 26 infant, 5 child).
• A congruence of standards exists, with most instructors receiving specialized training; 26% are nurses and 67% are physicians.
• Nearly all centers (92%) prioritize non-technical skills, including crisis resource management, with video-supported debriefing as a key training component.

Impact:

• The PaedSim project seeks to standardize pediatric simulation curricula internationally, enhancing training efficacy and sustainability.
• Improved simulation training can lead to better preparedness for rare but critical pediatric emergencies.
• Standardization efforts aim to ensure consistent, high-quality training for healthcare professionals managing pediatric emergencies.