Simulation in Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowships

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Training
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Graduate medical education is evolving with new accreditation systems.
• Simulation is a proven method for medical training and assessment.
• Pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) fellowship programs face unique challenges in adopting new training modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the current utilization of simulation in PEM fellowship programs.
• To identify barriers hindering the implementation of simulation in PEM fellowships.
• To inform strategies for enhancing simulation-based education in PEM.

Main Methods:

• A survey was developed through consensus.
• Anonymous online surveys were distributed to PEM program directors.
• Data were collected from 69 fellowship programs (95% response rate).

Main Results:

• 97% of PEM programs utilize simulation, with most planning to within two years.
• Key barriers include lack of faculty time (49%) and experience (39%), limited learner support (35%), and curricula (32%).
• Simulation curricula often focus on resuscitation, procedures, and teamwork; 37% use it for competency assessment.

Conclusions:

• PEM fellowships have significantly increased simulation use in the last five years.
• Faculty-related issues and funding are primary limitations, more so than equipment or space.
• Shared resources, enhanced faculty/financial support, and regional collaboration can overcome implementation barriers.