Enhancing Pediatric Residency Training Through Peer-Education Based Gamified Simulation

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Training
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Decreased clinical rotation hours in pediatric subspecialties like Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and Pediatric Emergency Rooms (ER) impact residency training.
• A 2019 survey indicated minimal simulation-based training (fewer than five hours annually) for most Italian pediatric residents.
• Significant reductions in pediatric Emergency Room (ER) rotation hours have been observed, necessitating alternative educational strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a gamified simulation-based curriculum designed to enhance pediatric residents' technical and non-technical competencies.
• To address the educational gaps created by reduced clinical exposure in pediatric residency programs.
• To improve resident preparedness for high-stakes pediatric care through innovative training methods.

Main Methods:

• Development of a five-year gamified simulation curriculum at the University of Genoa.
• Curriculum progression from foundational skills (Year 1) to advanced scenarios and high-fidelity simulations (Years 2-5).
• Integration of gamification elements (badges, leaderboards, team rewards) to boost engagement and motivation.

Main Results:

• The curriculum aims to improve both technical skills (e.g., airway management, resuscitation) and non-technical competencies (e.g., teamwork, leadership).
• Gamification elements are designed to enhance resident motivation, participation, and skill mastery.
• The program provides a structured approach to developing essential skills for pediatric critical care.

Conclusions:

• Gamified simulation offers an innovative solution to the challenges posed by reduced clinical hours in pediatric residency.
• This approach effectively enhances resident preparedness for real-world pediatric emergencies.
• The curriculum fosters the development of critical technical and non-technical skills vital for high-stakes pediatric care.