Hidden identity simulation: Using secret character roles to practice navigating event medical team dynamics

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Interdisciplinary medical teams frequently encounter novel collaborations at mass-gathering events.
• Effective navigation of interpersonal dynamics is crucial for team performance in such settings.
• Traditional methods may not adequately address the emotional complexities of team conflict.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a gamified simulation, Hidden Identity Simulation (HID SIM), for training interdisciplinary medical teams.
• To assess participant engagement and stress levels compared to traditional simulations.
• To measure changes in self-efficacy for teamwork and medical competencies.

Main Methods:

• A gamified simulation (HID SIM) was developed with secret character roles to navigate team dynamics during a case.
• Twenty-nine participants engaged in a piloted serotonin toxicity case using HID SIM.
• Pre- and post-simulation self-efficacy assessments were conducted for various competencies.

Main Results:

• HID SIM received high ratings: 4.75/5 overall and 4.43/5 for engagement.
• Participants found the simulation less stressful than anticipated (3.54/5) and other simulations (3.68/5).
• Statistically significant increases (p < 0.001) were observed in all assessed teamwork and medical competencies post-simulation.

Conclusions:

• Gamified simulations like HID SIM offer an engaging and effective method for medical team training.
• HID SIM successfully enhances self-efficacy in critical teamwork and medical skills.
• The approach is adaptable for diverse clinical settings and specific team dynamic training needs.