First Experience With Using a Simulator in Teaching Physiology of the Cardiovascular System

Simulation is widely used for training practical skills, clinical procedures, critical thinking, and communication. Its application in teaching cardiovascular physiology represents an innovative educational approach. We introduced the Cardiopulmonary Auscultation Patient Simulator (CPS) "Harvey" into the Physiology curriculum for second-year General Medicine students at Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University. During practical sessions, students performed heart auscultation and blood pressure measurement tasks in two ways: classical investigation on each other or working with the CPS simulator in small groups (4-8 students). At the end of the practicals, students completed an anonymous questionnaire evaluating this teaching method. Respondents (n=110; 68 Slovak- and 42 English-program students) perceived the simulation-based teaching very positively. Most students reported that simulations improved their understanding of cardiovascular physiology topics previously covered in lectures. They found the activities easy to perform and expressed interest in broader use of simulation in other sessions. The main limitations reported were insufficient time for repeated practice and the relatively large group size. Students suggested longer sessions and smaller working groups. In conclusion, students considered the simulator-based practicals beneficial for learning and helpful for increasing confidence in practical skills. Based on their feedback, we plan to expand the use of simulations to additional physiology practicals and extend session duration to allow more hands-on practice.