Design and Implementation of a Multidisciplinary High-Fidelity Simulation Course for the Management of Malignant...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiation Oncology
• Simulation Training

Background:

• High-fidelity simulation (HFS) offers valuable hands-on practice for rare, high-stakes scenarios like malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC).
• Radiation therapist (RTT)-led multidisciplinary radiation oncology (RO) emergency simulation courses are novel educational interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the educational outcomes of an RTT-led, multidisciplinary HFS course for MSCC.
• To assess interdisciplinary education perceptions and self-rated knowledge among participants.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team designed an HFS course for MSCC.
• Fifteen learners (RO residents, RTT students, MP resident) participated in an RTT-facilitated simulation.
• Pre- and post-simulation interdisciplinary education perception (IEP) scales and course evaluations were administered.

Main Results:

• Interdisciplinary education perception scores improved post-simulation (91.76 to 94.23).
• Significant improvements in self-rated knowledge were observed across 9 of 10 learning domains.
• Comfort levels regarding knowledge of MSCC management increased from 6/15 to 14/15 participants.

Conclusions:

• Collaboratively designed and RTT-led HFS courses are viable and effective for improving learning outcomes.
• This simulation approach enhances preparedness for radiation oncology emergencies among residents and students.