Impact of virtual simulation vs. Video refresher training on NRP simulation performance: a randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Training
• Neonatal Resuscitation

Background:

• Healthcare provider skills degrade over time without reinforcement.
• Maintaining proficiency in Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) skills is critical for patient outcomes.
• Traditional refresher training methods may not be sufficient to prevent skill decay.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of NRP virtual simulations (eSim™) and video refresher training on provider simulation performance six months post-NRP course.
• To assess the acceptability of the NRP eSim™ platform.
• To compare the effectiveness of eSim™, video, and no refresher training on long-term skill retention.

Main Methods:

• A multi-site randomized controlled trial was conducted with NRP providers from four U.S. institutions.
• Participants were randomized to receive bi-monthly refreshers via NRP eSim™, NRP resuscitation video, or no refresher (control group).
• Simulation performance was assessed immediately after the initial NRP course and again at the six-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• A significant decline in resuscitation skills (71%) was observed at the six-month follow-up.
• No significant differences in performance were found between the eSim™, video, and control groups.
• Participants who engaged with either the video or eSim™ refresher training demonstrated less skill decline at six months (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• NRP refresher training, utilizing either eSim™ or video formats, shows potential in mitigating the decline of resuscitation skills.
• Regular simulation-based refreshers may be a valuable strategy for long-term skill maintenance in neonatal resuscitation.
• Further research into the optimal frequency and format of refresher training is warranted.