Low-cost high-fidelity anaesthetic simulation.

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Anesthesiology Training
• Healthcare Education Technology

Background:

• Simulation is a valuable training tool in healthcare, but high costs and infrastructure needs limit its adoption in smaller facilities.
• Effective simulation relies on debriefing and repetition, influenced by simulator technical features.
• Existing manikin simulators present barriers for resource-limited healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a cost-effective method for creating a high-fidelity anesthetic simulator.
• To demonstrate the utility of this low-cost simulator for team-based in situ simulations and specific trainee assessments.
• To offer a viable simulation solution for peripheral healthcare centers.

Main Methods:

• Modification of existing basic manikins and integration with biomedical calibration machines.
• Development of a high-fidelity anesthetic simulator with minimal institutional cost.
• Implementation of team-based in situ simulations and 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' assessments.

Main Results:

• The developed simulator effectively supported high-fidelity, team-based in situ simulations.
• The simulator facilitated 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' assessments for anesthetic trainees.
• The solution proved to be a minimal-cost alternative to commercial simulators.

Conclusions:

• A low-cost, high-fidelity anesthetic simulator can be constructed using readily available institutional equipment.
• This approach provides a practical and affordable method for enhancing anesthetic training in resource-constrained environments.
• Peripheral healthcare facilities can leverage similar strategies to implement regular high-fidelity simulation training.