The McGill Simulation Complexity Score (MSCS): a novel complexity scoring system for simulations in trauma.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology
• Trauma Care Training

Background:

• Simulation in medical education involves using interactive mannequins in realistic settings.
• The complexity of trauma simulations has not been previously assessed objectively.
• There is a need for an objective measure to evaluate trauma simulation complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an objective trauma simulation complexity score.
• To assess the interrater reliability of this new scoring system.

Main Methods:

• The McGill Simulation Complexity Score (MSCS) was developed, reflecting the Advanced Trauma Life Support approach.
• The MSCS considers trauma injury severity and management complexity.
• Interrater reliability was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) at 5 high-fidelity simulation events with 3-9 raters.

Main Results:

• The MSCS comprises 5 categories (airway, breathing, circulation, disability, extremities/exposure) with 5 levels each.
• Maximum scores are assigned to cases leading to cardiac arrest.
• The mean MSCS was 10.2 (range 3.0-20.0), with mean PCC and ICC values above 0.7, indicating statistical significance.

Conclusions:

• The McGill Simulation Complexity Score (MSCS) provides an objective measure for trauma simulation.
• The MSCS demonstrates high interrater reliability, making it a valuable tool for medical education.