Evaluation of a Mobile Telesimulation Unit to Train Rural and Remote Practitioners on High-Acuity Low-Occurrence...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Rural Health
• Surgical Skills Training

Background:

• Rural and remote areas face unique challenges in providing acute medical care.
• Simulation-based medical education (SBME) is effective but often inaccessible in remote locations due to cost and logistical barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the educational efficacy of remote simulation-based training for acute care procedures using a mobile telesimulation unit (MTU).
• To compare the MTU approach with traditional face-to-face training.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual framework combining Kirkpatrick's Learning Evaluation Model and Miller's Clinical Assessment Framework was used.
• Participants were assessed on procedural knowledge ('knows') and performance ('shows how') using written tests, video-recorded simulations (chest tube insertion), OSATS checklist, and Global Rating Scale.
• Reaction to training was measured via satisfaction surveys.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in written knowledge ('knows') between groups.
• No significant differences in procedural performance ('shows how') between remote (MTU) and face-to-face training groups immediately post-training.
• Both training groups showed significant improvement compared to the control group, with no significant differences in participant satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Remote simulation-based training using a mobile telesimulation unit is an effective method for teaching procedural skills.
• This approach yields comparable learning outcomes to traditional face-to-face training.
• Mobile telesimulation offers a viable solution for delivering SBME in rural and remote settings, overcoming access barriers and providing expert mentorship.