A high-fidelity, fully immersive simulation course to replicate ENT and head and neck emergencies

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Simulation-based training is vital in medical education for practicing emergency management in a safe setting.
• High-fidelity simulation provides a controlled environment for developing clinical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an immersive Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) and head and neck emergency simulation course.
• To assess the impact of the training on participants' confidence in managing critical scenarios.

Main Methods:

• A 1-day course featuring eight high-fidelity simulation scenarios.
• Video-assisted debriefing covering technical and non-technical skills (communication, teamwork, leadership, situational awareness).

Main Results:

• Post-course surveys showed a statistically significant increase in participants' confidence scores for managing airway and head and neck emergencies (p < 0.0001).
• Eight courses were successfully conducted, indicating program viability.

Conclusions:

• This was the first fully immersive ENT simulation course in the region, aligning with the ENT Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum Programme.
• Continued demand for this training style led to its integration into the regular training calendar.