Clinical decision-making training using the Script Concordance Test and simulation: A pilot study for pediatric...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Clinical Skills Training

Background:

• Pediatric residents require non-technical skills (communication, decision-making) often untested in emergency settings.
• Simulation is a key tool for developing these skills in pediatric emergency scenarios.
• This study combined the Script Concordance Test (SCT) with simulation for pediatric residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a combined Script Concordance Test (SCT) and simulation training.
• To improve clinical reasoning and non-technical skills in first-year pediatric residents.
• To evaluate resident satisfaction with the novel training approach.

Main Methods:

• First-year pediatric residents underwent training on managing febrile seizures.
• Participants completed the SCT (seven clinical situations) before simulation scenarios.
• Trainee satisfaction was measured via post-session questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Twenty residents participated; SCT scores were lower and more variable than experts'.
• Concordance was better for diagnostic items than for investigation or treatment.
• All residents reported satisfaction, requesting further training sessions.

Conclusions:

• The combined SCT and simulation training is feasible and shows promise for developing pediatric residents' non-technical skills.
• This approach aligns with French medical education reforms and is adaptable to other specialties.
• Further research is needed due to the study's small sample size.