Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice Simulation for a Maternal Cardiac Arrest With Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Maternal cardiac arrest is a rare but critical obstetric emergency.
• Effective preparation for such events is crucial for resident physicians.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of rapid cycle deliberate practice simulation in preparing obstetrics and gynecology residents for maternal cardiac arrest scenarios.
• To assess the impact of simulation on resident comfort levels and readiness in managing obstetric emergencies.

Main Methods:

• A 2-hour educational session was conducted for 16 obstetrics and gynecology residents.
• Rapid cycle deliberate practice simulation was used, involving multiple rounds of a maternal cardiac arrest case with debriefing.
• Residents practiced recognition, initial management, differential diagnosis, and preparation for resuscitative hysterotomy.

Main Results:

• Average comfort in managing cardiac arrest improved from 1.8 to 3.6 (on a 5-point scale).
• Comfort with supportive airway management increased from 1.9 to 4.1.
• Residents found the training highly useful, with an average course rating of 5.8 out of 6.

Conclusions:

• Rapid cycle deliberate practice simulation is an effective method for improving resident preparedness for maternal cardiac arrest.
• Simulation-based training enhances resident confidence and skills in managing critical obstetric emergencies.