Does Simulation-Based Training Increase Athletic Training Students' Clinical Confidence and Competence in Performing...

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Medical Education
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Sudden cardiac death (SCD) incidence in athletes is higher than previously thought.
• Enhanced cardiovascular screening during preparticipation physical examinations (PPE) is crucial for athletic training.
• Limited research exists on simulation-based training's impact on healthcare professionals' clinical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a simulation-based educational intervention.
• To determine if the intervention increases athletic training students' self-reported confidence.
• To evaluate improvements in clinical competence for cardiovascular screening.

Main Methods:

• A pretest-posttest design was employed with 25 first-year athletic training students.
• The intervention included a 45-minute instructor-led session and a 45-minute audio session with heart murmur repetitions.
• Assessments included self-reported confidence, a knowledge exam, and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).

Main Results:

• Significant increases in self-reported confidence (p<0.001) and OSCE clinical skills assessment (p<0.001) were observed.
• Knowledge exam scores (p=0.031) and OSCE history-taking (p<0.001) also showed significant improvement.
• Effect sizes ranged from low to high, indicating substantial impact across all measured outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is a highly effective method for enhancing cardiovascular screening skills.
• The intervention significantly boosts athletic training students' confidence and clinical competence.
• This approach offers a valuable tool for improving preparticipation physical examinations in athletes.