The Roles and Activities of Medical Simulation Technicians in Poland: A Preliminary Exploratory Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Healthcare Simulation
• Professional Roles in Healthcare

Background:

• Medical simulation technicians' roles are diverse and vary internationally.
• Technicians are crucial for operationalizing training scenarios and managing simulation equipment.
• Their responsibilities extend to maintenance, repairs, and audio-video system management for debriefing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the professional responsibilities of medical simulation technicians.
• To investigate the scope of technical, organizational, and educational tasks performed.
• To identify variations in role configuration within Poland.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory mixed-methods study was conducted.
• A predominantly quantitative survey design was employed.
• A qualitative component included an open-ended question for detailed responses.

Main Results:

• Thirty-five simulation technicians participated, with 71.43% being men.
• Respondents reported performing a wide array of technical and organizational tasks.
• Selected educational support functions were also part of their duties.

Conclusions:

• Medical simulation technicians in Poland undertake broad technical, organizational, and educational support roles.
• The study indicates local variations in role configuration and blurred lines between technical and educational responsibilities.
• Findings should be interpreted cautiously due to the limited sample size and recruitment strategy.