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A Novel Approach for Engagement in Team Training in High-Technology Surgery: The Robotic-Assisted Surgery Olympics
Tara N Cohen1, Jennifer T Anger2, Falisha F Kanji1
1From the Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles.
Journal of Patient Safety
|July 7, 2022
Summary
The "RAS Olympics," a game-based training, successfully engaged surgical staff, enhancing teamwork and communication skills for robotic-assisted surgery (RAS). Participants favored this interactive approach over traditional methods for improving surgical safety and efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare education
- Surgical training
- Teamwork and communication
Background:
- Developing technical and nontechnical skills in healthcare is crucial for safety and efficiency.
- Barriers exist in implementing traditional training programs.
- Serious games offer a novel approach to motivate teams and reinforce skill acquisition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop the "RAS Olympics," a game-based educational competition.
- To improve technical and nontechnical skills for robotic-assisted surgery (RAS).
- To address challenges in teamwork within RAS.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study was conducted at an academic medical center.
- Robotic-assisted surgery staff participated in the "RAS Olympics."
- Impact was assessed using surveys and debriefs.
Main Results:
- Sixteen operating room team members participated with favorable reactions (average score, 4.5/5).
- Participants found the activity relevant, enjoyable, and beneficial for practicing new techniques.
- Confidence in skills remained unchanged, but participants preferred the interactive "RAS Olympics" to traditional training.
Conclusions:
- The "RAS Olympics" successfully engaged surgical staff and trained technical and nontechnical skills.
- The experience fostered appreciation for teammates and understanding of challenges in RAS teamwork.
- This game-based approach promotes safety and efficiency in robotic-assisted surgery.
