Assessing a Longitudinal, Multi-Institutional, 3-Year Simulation-Based Boot Camp Curriculum for Neonatology Fellows:...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Neonatology
• Simulation Training

Background:

• Neonatology fellowship training requires advanced cognitive, technical, and communication skills.
• Existing curricula may not adequately address the longitudinal development of these skills.
• There is a need for innovative educational models to bridge training gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a 3-year longitudinal simulation-based boot camp for neonatology fellows.
• To enhance fellows' cognitive, technical, and communication skills throughout their training.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a multi-institutional simulation curriculum.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Midwest Neonatal Simulation Boot Camp (MNSBC) using Kern's approach.
• Phased implementation over three years, with tailored content for each fellowship year.
• Evaluation via pre- and post-program surveys assessing self-perceived proficiency.

Main Results:

• Trained 152 first-year, 88 second-year, and 57 third-year fellows from 12 institutions.
• Demonstrated statistically significant improvements in self-assessed proficiency after each boot camp.
• Participants reported enhanced confidence and skills in managing high-stakes scenarios.

Conclusions:

• A longitudinal, multi-institutional simulation boot camp is feasible and effective for neonatology fellows.
• The MNSBC model successfully improves self-perceived cognitive, technical, and communication skills.
• This curriculum offers a sustainable approach to address educational needs in fellowship training.