Virtual simulation training for postpartum hemorrhage in low-to-moderate-volume hospitals in the US

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology

Background:

• Rising maternal mortality in the US highlights the need for improved obstetric emergency preparedness.
• Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a critical event, particularly in low-resource settings.
• Accessible, evidence-based inter-professional education is crucial for managing rare but severe events like PPH.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of virtual simulation training for PPH management.
• To compare two virtual training models: direct simulation and train-the-trainer.
• To assess the impact of training on clinical teams in low-to-moderate-volume hospitals.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study involving 8 non-academic US hospitals (Dec 2021-Mar 2022).
• Two arms: direct virtual simulation training and a train-the-trainer approach.
• Knowledge, confidence, and attitudes assessed pre-, post-, and 3-months post-training using validated surveys.

Main Results:

• Both models showed initial improvements in knowledge and confidence within the direct simulation group, sustained at 3 months.
• The direct simulation group demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores post-training and at 3 months compared to the train-the-trainer group.
• No significant differences in confidence or attitude scores between the groups; virtual/hybrid formats were preferred.

Conclusions:

• Virtual simulation training for PPH is feasible, acceptable, and effective in low-to-moderate-volume settings.
• The direct simulation model superiorly enhances knowledge acquisition and retention for PPH management.
• Virtual education offers a sustainable solution for inter-professional training in obstetric emergencies.