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Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training for Thoracentesis - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nikolay Pavlov1,2, Marc von Gernler3, Sabina A Guler1
1Department of Pneumology, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
ATS Scholar
|August 4, 2026
Summary
Simulation-based training (SBT) for thoracentesis effectively improves procedural skills and self-confidence. Further research is needed to confirm impacts on patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Simulation
- Thoracic Procedures
Background:
- Thoracentesis is a common procedure with complication rates linked to clinician skill.
- Simulation-based training (SBT) is recommended for procedural skills but evidence for thoracentesis is limited.
- A comprehensive review of SBT effectiveness and instructional features for thoracentesis is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and appraise evidence on SBT effectiveness for thoracentesis.
- To assess impacts on educational and patient outcomes.
- To examine characteristics of effective SBT programs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Assessed methodological quality (MERSQI) and risk of bias.
- Descriptive analysis and random-effects meta-analyses for self-confidence and performance scores.
Main Results:
- 17 studies included; 14 used pretest-posttest designs; 15 used high-fidelity simulation.
- Instructional features and outcomes varied; no specific associations found.
- Pooled correlation for self-confidence: 1.59; for performance scores: 23.94.
Conclusions:
- High-fidelity simulation-based training for thoracentesis enhances skills and self-confidence.
- More evidence is required to establish benefits for behavioral and patient outcomes.
