Simulation for ward processes of surgical care

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Surgical simulation initially focused on technical skills but now expands to nontechnical skills (communication, teamwork, crisis management).
• Nontechnical errors in ward settings contribute to preventable adverse events.
• Ward rounds are key physician-patient interactions lacking formal training and assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the integration of nontechnical skills training within surgical education using simulation.
• To describe the establishment and components of a novel simulated ward environment.
• To review literature and present practical considerations for implementing surgical ward simulation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing simulation in surgical education.
• Description of the development and setup of a functional surgical ward simulator.
• Examination of facilities, equipment, costs, personnel, scenario development, and assessment tools.

Main Results:

• Simulated wards provide a realistic environment for safe practice of perioperative care.
• Multidisciplinary training and assessment of full ward rounds are facilitated.
• Key components for establishing a ward simulator include facilities, equipment, personnel, and curriculum integration.

Conclusions:

• Simulated wards are essential for comprehensive surgical training, encompassing both technical and nontechnical skills.
• Formalized training and assessment during ward rounds can be achieved through simulation.
• Implementing a surgical ward simulator requires careful planning regarding resources and educational tools.