[Full-scale simulation in German medical schools and anesthesia residency programs : Status quo]

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Anesthesiology Training
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Simulation is increasingly utilized in medical education and professional development.
• German anesthesiology departments received full-scale patient simulators in 2003.
• Simulation courses are offered to physicians and nurses, with potential for mandatory residency training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current state of full-scale simulation training in German anesthesiology.
• To assess training provisions for medical students, residents, and continuing medical education.

Main Methods:

• An online questionnaire was distributed to 38 university anesthesiology departments and 5 non-university facilities.
• The survey collected data on simulation center infrastructure and courses offered between 2010 and 2012.
• A high response rate of 86% ensured comprehensive data collection.

Main Results:

• 80% of centers utilize high or very high-fidelity simulators; 91% use scripted scenarios and 69% use video debriefing.
• While 97% of university centers offer courses for medical students, only 31% mandate simulation for residents.
• Current training frequency is insufficient, with physicians and nurses receiving simulation-based training only every 2.6 and 6 years, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in implementing full-scale simulation in German anesthesiology.
• Existing capacities require substantial expansion to ensure regular training for all clinical personnel.
• New funding models and external requirements, like the national curriculum, are crucial for future growth.