Developing sustainable Emergency Urology Simulation Training in sub-Saharan Africa

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Urology

Background:

• Simulation-based education (SBE) is crucial for surgical training but limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Emergency Urology Simulation Training (EUST) was developed to address urological emergency management gaps in sub-Saharan Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the EUST program in improving knowledge and confidence.
• To assess the feasibility and sustainability of SBE in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Delivered single-day EUST courses combining online learning, didactic teaching, and hands-on simulation using animal tissue models.
• Assessed participants via pre- and post-course multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and confidence surveys.
• Collected faculty feedback on preparedness and sustainability.

Main Results:

• Participant knowledge scores significantly improved by 15%-32% post-course.
• Confidence in managing rare urological emergencies increased universally.
• Faculty anxiety decreased, and trainees successfully transitioned to faculty roles, ensuring sustainability.

Conclusions:

• EUST is an affordable, scalable, and effective SBE model for urological emergencies in LMICs.
• The program fosters sustainable local faculty development and has a significant positive educational impact.
• EUST offers a viable solution for improving emergency urology care in resource-limited settings.