The Impact of Multidisciplinary In Situ Simulation-Based Team Training in the Operating Room on Patient Outcomes: A...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare simulation
• Patient safety research
• Surgical team training

Background:

• Operating rooms (ORs) are high-risk environments demanding effective teamwork for patient safety.
• Breakdowns in OR teamwork can lead to adverse patient outcomes.
• Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles inform simulation-based team training in the OR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of interprofessional, point-of-care simulation training in the OR on patient safety and clinical outcomes.
• To review existing literature on simulation-based team training in the OR setting.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed.
• Evidence was gathered from five electronic databases.
• Included studies were assessed for methodological rigor and data were analyzed thematically.

Main Results:

• Twelve studies were included, identifying three key themes: impact on team behavior/attitude/non-technical skills, identification of latent safety threats, and clinical outcomes (morbidity/mortality).
• In situ simulation training allows OR teams to practice high-risk procedures, overcome organizational barriers, and develop human factors and non-technical skills.
• Simulation training helps identify latent safety threats, proactively addressing potential errors and harm.

Conclusions:

• In situ simulation training positively impacts OR team dynamics and patient safety by enhancing skills and identifying risks.
• More research is warranted to demonstrate the direct influence of OR simulation training on clinical outcomes using standardized assessment tools.
• In situ simulation should be integrated into the healthcare quality improvement cycle.