RETAIN: A Board Game That Improves Neonatal Resuscitation Knowledge Retention

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Training
• Neonatal Resuscitation

Background:

• Current resuscitation guidelines emphasize simulation-based medical education (SBME).
• Traditional SBME is costly, time-consuming, and requires specialized facilities and instructors, limiting its routine implementation.
• The RETAIN board game was developed as an accessible and cost-effective tool for neonatal resuscitation training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the RETAIN board game-based training simulator in improving knowledge retention among healthcare providers.
• To assess the impact of the board game on specific aspects of neonatal resuscitation knowledge.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of neonatal healthcare providers participated in the study.
• Participants completed a pre-test, engaged with the RETAIN board game (tutorial and three scenarios), and then completed a post-test.
• Knowledge retention was assessed by comparing pre- and post-test scores.

Main Results:

• Overall knowledge retention increased by 10% (from 49% to 59%) between the pre- and post-tests.
• Significant knowledge gains were observed in temperature management, including the use of a hat, plastic wrap, and temperature probe.
• The study involved 30 healthcare providers: four doctors, 12 nurses, and 14 respiratory therapists.

Conclusions:

• The RETAIN board game demonstrated a 12% increase in knowledge retention (49% to 61%) among participants.
• The observed improvements in performance and knowledge support the utility of board game simulations for clinical training.
• Board game simulations offer a viable and effective method for enhancing healthcare provider education in neonatal resuscitation.