Development of evaluation grids for obstetrical techniques in simulation training using the Delphi method

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Simulation Training

Background:

• Simulation-based training is crucial in obstetrics for practicing rare and complex procedures.
• Ensuring practitioner preparedness for infrequent events like vaginal breech delivery is challenging.
• Simulation effectively bridges the gap in experience for infrequently performed obstetric maneuvers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate evaluation grids for key obstetric maneuvers.
• To ensure reproducible and reliable assessment tools for simulation-based education.
• To enhance the quality of obstetrics training through standardized evaluation.

Main Methods:

• The Delphi method was employed with 14 experienced obstetric experts.
• Three rounds of evaluation assessed criteria for breech, version, and shoulder dystocia maneuvers.
• Consensus was reached based on median scores and response intervals over three rounds.

Main Results:

• Evaluation grids were created for breech maneuvers (breech, Lovset, Bracht, Mauriceau), version and breech extraction, and shoulder dystocia maneuvers (McRoberts, reverse Woods, Jacquemier).
• Specific numbers of criteria were established for each maneuver, totaling over 50 criteria across all maneuvers.
• The Delphi process successfully refined and selected relevant assessment criteria.

Conclusions:

• A set of expert-validated evaluation grids for critical obstetric maneuvers was successfully developed.
• These grids can be utilized for certifying obstetrics residents.
• Further validation in a subsequent study is recommended before full implementation.