Rapid Curricular Innovations During COVID-19 Clinical Suspension: Maintaining Student Engagement with Simulation...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Nursing Education
• Simulation in Healthcare

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adaptation in healthcare education programs.
• Student suspension from campus and clinical sites required immediate changes to didactic and clinical learning structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the innovative simulation strategies implemented by a midwifery and women's health nurse practitioner program.
• To promote student learning and engagement through adapted synchronous and asynchronous simulation experiences.

Main Methods:

• Objective structured clinical examinations simulating telehealth encounters.
• On-call simulations for telephone triage practice.
• Virtual instruction and equipment for intrauterine device insertion.
• Trigger films for clinical scenario discussions.
• Bilateral learning tools and web-based virtual clinical encounters.
• Remote group sessions and video-guided practice for suturing skills.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of diverse simulation methods to maintain curriculum continuity.
• Enhanced student learning, skill acquisition, and confidence through adapted methods.
• Demonstrated program flexibility and faculty-student reflexivity in response to pandemic challenges.

Conclusions:

• Innovative simulation modalities are effective in overcoming disruptions in healthcare education.
• Adaptable curricula utilizing technology can ensure robust clinical reasoning and skill development.
• Lessons learned from pandemic-driven adaptations can inform future healthcare simulation practices.