Simulation Training in a Lower Middle-Income Country: Supporting a New Center and Developing Low-Cost Models for...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Global Health

Background:

• Growing demand for accessible surgical simulation training in low-resource settings.
• Pilot workshop conducted at a new simulation center in a lower middle-income country (LMIC).
• Evaluation of two novel, low-cost surgical simulation models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of low-cost surgical simulation models in an LMIC.
• To train local educators in simulation-based medical education.
• To improve surgical skill acquisition and teaching practices in resource-limited environments.

Main Methods:

• Development of hybrid-fidelity pericardiocentesis and thoracostomy simulators using local materials (<$20 each).
• "Training-the-trainer" workshop for local educators.
• Hands-on workshops for 109 postgraduate anesthesiology trainees using the novel simulators.
• Analysis of participant surveys to evaluate training effectiveness and simulator feedback.

Main Results:

• 100% of educators agreed or strongly agreed that simulations improved teaching preparation for clinical scenarios and interprofessional care.
• Pericardiocentesis simulator rated "good" or "outstanding" by 100% of respondents.
• Thoracostomy simulator rated "good" or "outstanding" by 64% of respondents.
• Simulators praised for low cost, realistic anatomy, and immersive design.

Conclusions:

• Successful implementation of novel surgical simulators in an LMIC through collaboration with local experts.
• Advancement of local simulation instruction practices.
• Collaboration is crucial for expanding surgical simulation access in low- and middle-income countries.