Early Integration of Clinical Simulation in Medical Students: A Progressive Experience Using SimZones.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Learning
• Competency-Based Education

Background:

• Early clinical training in medical education often lacks structure, hindering student participation and skill development.
• The SimZones framework offers a progressive simulation approach, but its use with first-year medical students needs further evidence.
• Limited research exists on implementing structured simulation programs for novice medical learners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a structured clinical simulation program for first-year medical students using the SimZones framework.
• To evaluate the outcomes of this simulation program on student competencies.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the SimZones framework in early medical training.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study with mixed-methods analysis involving 116 first-year medical students at a Chilean medical school.
• Implementation of structured Zone 1 simulation activities focusing on technical, communication, and attitudinal skills.
• Zone 2 integrative activity simulating primary care consultations with standardized patients and faculty debriefing.

Main Results:

• High performance in attitudinal competencies (≥97%) and communication skills (≥89%) was observed.
• Variable achievement rates were noted in technical skills, ranging from 63% to 78%.
• Qualitative analysis highlighted strengths in empathy and professionalism, with areas for improvement in procedural technique and time management.

Conclusions:

• Progressive simulation using the SimZones framework effectively develops foundational competencies in early medical education.
• The structured approach supports competency-based medical education goals.
• Specific areas for technical skill reinforcement were identified, informing future curriculum development.