Multi-professional simulation-based team training in obstetric emergencies for improving patient outcomes and...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Obstetrics
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Simulation-based obstetric team training aims to enhance error anticipation, improve patient outcomes, and boost clinical team performance.
• It is recognized as a valuable tool for advancing obstetric healthcare outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of simulation-based obstetric team training.
• Assessing effects on patient outcomes, clinical team performance (practice and educational settings), and trainee experiences.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including cluster-RCTs.
• Searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP.
• Utilized Kirkpatrick's model for outcome categorization (Levels 3 and 4).

Main Results:

• Eight RCTs (including 6 cluster-RCTs) involving over 1000 participants and 200,000 births were analyzed.
• Simulation training may reduce neonatal mortality and trauma from shoulder dystocia, and slightly decrease cesarean deliveries.
• Evidence suggests probable improvement in obstetric team performance in practice, but effects on composite maternal/perinatal adverse events and maternal mortality remain uncertain.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based obstetric team training shows potential for improving team performance and specific maternal/perinatal outcomes.
• High-certainty evidence is limited due to bias and imprecision; effects may not generalize to all outcomes.
• Future research should focus on patient outcomes and diverse training designs.