Use of GoPro point-of-view camera in intubation simulation-A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-based Learning
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Endotracheal intubation is a critical, high-stakes procedure that presents unique teaching challenges.
• Novice learners require effective methods to master the technical and time-sensitive aspects of intubation.
• Action cameras offer a novel approach to capture procedural details and provide feedback.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of GoPro cameras in improving endotracheal intubation teaching for novice learners.
• To compare GoPro-assisted feedback with traditional feedback methods in a simulated setting.
• To assess student perceptions of GoPro use in their learning experience.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial with 71 Year 4 medical students was conducted.
• Participants received standardized intubation training, followed by randomization to GoPro or non-GoPro feedback groups.
• Outcomes included successful intubation and first-pass intubation, assessed by blinded evaluators after three months.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in intubation success rates was observed between the GoPro and non-GoPro groups (85.3% vs 90.0%).
• Qualitative feedback indicated that 98.5% of participants found GoPro effective for learning.
• Key themes included improved assessment, identification of subtle details, and enhanced understanding through unique point-of-view footage.

Conclusions:

• GoPro cameras show promise as a tool for simulation-based endotracheal intubation teaching.
• Implementation strategies are important to maximize the benefits of GoPro-led feedback.
• Further research may explore optimizing GoPro integration into medical training curricula.