High fidelity ECMO simulation: a reality check with reality-use of simulation in ECMO teaching program

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology
• Cardiopulmonary Support

Background:

• Simulation-based learning is integral to modern medical education, offering safe yet realistic training environments.
• Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) training requires effective pedagogical strategies to prepare novices.
• The fidelity of simulation impacts the learning experience and perceived effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of low- and high-fidelity simulation strategies in training ECMO novices.
• To assess novice participants' perceptions of simulation-based ECMO training effectiveness and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A simulation-based ECMO training program incorporating both low- and high-fidelity simulations was developed.
• Four training courses were conducted with 51 ECMO novices.
• Pre- and post-training questionnaires assessed training effectiveness and participant perceptions.

Main Results:

• Participants reported extremely high overall satisfaction with the simulation training (4.9/5).
• High-fidelity simulation was perceived as highly realistic, enhancing immersion and learning experience.
• Significant declines in perceived structured troubleshooting (p=0.02), efficiency improvement (p=0.002), and self-confidence (p=0.001) were noted after high-fidelity simulation compared to expectations.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based ECMO training, particularly high-fidelity, is highly satisfactory for novices.
• High-fidelity simulation effectively enhances realism but may not meet novice expectations for structured problem-solving and confidence-building.
• Complex high-fidelity simulation should be used cautiously with novices to prevent discouragement and promote continued learning in ECMO.