Virtual Reality Versus In-Person Simulation of Sepsis for Medical Students: Randomized Comparative Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology
• Sepsis Management

Background:

• Virtual reality (VR) simulation offers a potential cost-effective alternative to in-person (IP) medical simulation training.
• Existing studies show mixed results comparing VR and IP simulation, often focusing on knowledge or skills rather than integrated practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of VR versus IP simulation in developing sepsis management skills among final-year medical students.
• To address a gap in medical education evidence regarding simulation modalities for critical care training.

Main Methods:

• A randomized comparative pilot study involving 32 final-year medical students at Great Western Hospital.
• Participants engaged in both IP and VR sepsis simulation sessions, with randomized order.
• Performance was assessed using the modified Queen's Simulation Assessment Tool (mQSAT) and recognition of septic shock/critical care needs.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in mQSAT scores or septic shock recognition were found between VR and IP simulation groups.
• Students who completed VR simulation only prior to assessment were more likely to recognize the need for critical care compared to those who completed IP simulation only (P=.01).

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates the feasibility of comparing VR and IP simulation methods in medical education.
• Measured learning outcomes were similar across groups, indicating no significant difference between VR and IP simulation for the educational outcomes assessed.
• Findings support the ethical conduct of further comparative studies on VR and IP simulation in medical training.