Eclampsia.

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Obstetrics
• Neurology

Background:

• Eclampsia is a rare but life-threatening obstetrical emergency characterized by new-onset seizures in women with preeclampsia.
• Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent severe maternal and fetal morbidity or mortality.
• Eclampsia can occur postpartum, posing diagnostic and management challenges in the emergency department.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess emergency medicine residents' ability to diagnose and manage eclampsia using a simulated oral board case.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a mock oral board examination in enhancing knowledge and skills related to eclampsia management.
• To provide a dynamic learning environment for residents to practice critical thinking and clinical decision-making in obstetric emergencies.

Main Methods:

• A mock oral board case was developed focusing on a postpartum patient presenting with seizures.
• Residents were assessed on history taking, physical examination, differential diagnosis, diagnostic workup, and management.
• Online evaluation tools and immediate verbal feedback were used to assess performance and provide learning opportunities.

Main Results:

• Residents rated the mock oral board session highly (4.3/5), finding it a challenging and enjoyable learning experience.
• The case effectively refreshed residents' knowledge and skills regarding preeclampsia and eclampsia management.
• Learners appreciated the relevance of the case to emergency medicine practice and board examinations.

Conclusions:

• The mock oral board case is an effective tool for evaluating and enhancing residents' competence in managing eclampsia.
• This educational method provides a valuable platform for residents to practice managing complex obstetric emergencies.
• The case serves as a good model for high-stakes testing and assessing clinical skills in treating preeclamptic and eclamptic patients.