Integrating a chatbot into simulation-based perfusion training: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiovascular Perfusion
• Simulation-Based Training

Background:

• Chatbots are increasingly used to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes in educational settings.
• Simulation-based training is essential in perfusion education for developing skills and clinical readiness in a safe environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a chatbot, PerfusionPal, on the learning outcomes of cardiovascular perfusion students.
• To assess differences in simulation performance between students using PerfusionPal and those in a control group.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 21 Master's students in Cardiovascular Perfusion.
• Students were assigned to either an experimental group using PerfusionPal or a control group.
• Performance was assessed using pre- and post-simulation scores, completion time, and reservoir checks across two simulated scenarios.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in assessment scores, completion time, or number of reservoir checks between groups in either simulation.
• The experimental group using PerfusionPal demonstrated significantly longer average times between reservoir checks in both simulations (p=0.036 and p=0.043).

Conclusions:

• The PerfusionPal chatbot did not significantly enhance assessment scores or overall simulation performance in this pilot study.
• The chatbot did influence a specific aspect of performance, namely reservoir monitoring frequency.
• Further research is required to optimize chatbot integration in simulation training and evaluate its broader feasibility and generalizability.