Virtual reality simulation training for childbirth: A cluster randomized crossover study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology
• Obstetrics & Gynecology

Background:

• Traditional medical training for normal vaginal delivery (NVD) often relies on mannequin-based simulation.
• The efficacy of virtual reality (VR) simulation in comparison to traditional methods for NVD training requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare knowledge acquisition and feedback between VR and mannequin-based simulation for teaching NVD to medical students.

Main Methods:

• A cluster randomized crossover study compared a novel NVD VR simulator (Oculus® Quest 2 HMD) with the PROMPT Flex® mannequin.
• Medical students completed knowledge quizzes pre- and post-simulation and provided feedback via a questionnaire.
• The primary outcome was percentage improvement in knowledge scores; secondary outcome was feedback scores.

Main Results:

• Medical students in VR simulation achieved significantly higher post-simulation knowledge scores (79.0% vs. 54.0%).
• Mannequin simulation received significantly higher feedback scores in five of six domains (61.0 vs. 58.3).
• A mixed approach was preferred by 42.5% of students, more than mannequin (40.5%) or VR (4.5%) alone.

Conclusions:

• The novel VR NVD simulator demonstrated superiority in knowledge delivery compared to mannequins.
• VR simulation can effectively complement traditional methods, serving as a primer or distance-learning tool for NVD training.
• A blended learning approach integrating VR and mannequins may optimize skill acquisition for birth attendants.