Introducing the “SIMline”—A Simulation Course in the Management of Severe Burns as a Tool in Undergraduate Medical Education

Abstract

Background: Management of burn injuries presents a complex and challenging situation for medical staff, especially for inexperienced young doctors. However, training on how to treat burn victims in the clinical setting is rarely taught in undergraduate medical classes. We have created the “SIMline”, a simulation training program explicitly designed for coaching medical students in burn management. Methods: A total of 43 students participated in the “SIMline” course, which took place at the training facility at the Medical University of Graz, between 2018 and 2019. The course provided theoretical classes, practical exercises, and a full-scale care process simulation training. The learning progress of the students was monitored via a formative integrated test. Results: Students showed great progress throughout the course of the “SIMline” program, as their test scores improved by an average of 88%. The passing rate was 0% at the first exam (prior to course) as compared to 87% at the final exam, taken after the training. Conclusions: Comprehensive practical training programs in burn care are underrepresented in medical education. The “SIMline” course presents a novel and effective approach in training medical students in burn management. However, follow-up evaluation is necessary to confirm long-term educational benefits.