Simulation-Based Training for Endoscopy Nurses Improves Device-to-Field Time: A Prospective Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Workflow Optimization

Background:

• Endoscopy nurse training is often informal, impacting assistant performance and workflow efficiency.
• Assistant performance is crucial for optimizing the endoscopy workflow.
• Evaluating structured training programs is essential for improving nurse-dependent workflow.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if a structured simulation-and-theory program enhances nurse-dependent workflow during live endoscopy.
• To quantify the impact of structured training on key performance indicators in endoscopy nursing.
• To determine the effectiveness of simulation-based education in improving endoscopy team efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A prospective parallel-group study involving 20 endoscopy nurses divided into Simulation + Theory and Control groups.
• Nurses assisted 10 recorded live procedures (gastroscopies and colonoscopies) with a standardized endoscopist.
• The primary endpoint was device-to-field time, analyzed by comparing within-nurse performance change from baseline to posttraining.

Main Results:

• The Simulation group demonstrated significantly shorter device-to-field times from case 4 onwards compared to the Control group.
• The primary analysis revealed an approximate 20% reduction in device readiness time (Time Ratio 0.80) in the trained group.
• Sensitivity analyses confirmed the positive directional impact of the structured training program on workflow efficiency.

Conclusions:

• A brief, structured simulation-and-theory program is associated with improved nurse device readiness during live endoscopy.
• These findings advocate for the integration of ongoing structured nurse training to enhance endoscopy service efficiency.
• Simulation-based education offers a practical strategy for optimizing endoscopy nursing performance and workflow.