Simulation Training Effects on Resident-Perceived Readiness for Obstetric Anesthesia Rotation

Beginning an unfamiliar rotation can be challenging as residents must expand their knowledge and skills to meet new clinical expectations, work with a new team of providers, and sometimes care for a new patient demographic. This may detract from learning, resident well-being, and patient care.

We implemented an obstetric anesthesia simulation session for anesthesiology residents prior to their first obstetric anesthesia rotation and measured the effect on residents' self-perceived preparedness.

The simulation session increased residents' feelings of preparedness for the rotation and increased residents' confidence in specific obstetric anesthesia skills.

Importantly, this study shows the potential for the use of a prerotation, rotation-specific simulation session to better prepare learners for rotations.