Multidisciplinary team training in a simulation setting for acute obstetric emergencies: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Patient Safety
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background:

• Obstetric emergencies require effective teamwork for optimal patient outcomes.
• Multidisciplinary teamwork training in simulation settings is a novel approach to enhance preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the literature on the effectiveness of multidisciplinary teamwork training in simulation for reducing adverse outcomes in obstetric emergencies.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library.
• Studies evaluating teamwork training programs using simulation models for labor ward staff in acute obstetric emergencies were selected.
• Eight articles were included, comprising four randomized controlled trials and four cohort studies.

Main Results:

• One study reported improved perinatal outcomes, including 5-minute Apgar scores and reduced hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
• Other studies indicated improvements in knowledge, practical skills, communication, and team performance.
• Simulation center training did not show superior outcomes compared to local hospital training.

Conclusions:

• Multidisciplinary teamwork training in simulation settings shows potential for error prevention and improved patient safety in obstetric emergencies.
• Further studies on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness are necessary before large-scale implementation.