Simulation-based Training for Anaesthesiology Residents: A Boon

Abstract

Training in anaesthesiology necessitates exposure to diverse clinical situations, demanding quick thinking, decision-making, and intervention. Achieving expertise in this field traditionally requires years of clinical practice and exposure to various scenarios. Simulation-Based Medical Education (SBME) revolutionises anaesthesiology training by providing a controlled environment where trainees can acquire knowledge, refine clinical skills, and develop clinical and non clinical competencies. This approach includes training in soft skills, critical analysis of clinical scenarios, and receiving constructive feedback from qualified instructors. In alignment with industries like aviation and the military, various countries have incorporated SBME into medical curricula. The present scoping review explores the benefits, limitations, and diverse applications of SBME for anaesthesiology trainees. The historical progression of SBME, from basic procedural models to advanced simulations and virtual reality, underscores its transformative impact on medical education. Standards and accreditation for simulation laboratories ensure quality maintenance in training programs. SBME in anaesthesiology focuses on technical skill development and cultivating crucial non technical skills essential for patient safety. The review emphasises the need for a comprehensive curriculum, qualified instructors, reliable equipment, and ethical considerations to establish standards for simulation in anaesthesia. The versatility of simulation types, including low-fidelity task trainers, high-fidelity mannequins, and virtual simulations, enhances training opportunities. Anaesthesia simulation encompasses a spectrum of scenarios, from cardiothoracic anaesthesia to airway management, addressing technical and soft skills. While SBME offers advantages such as enhanced teamwork, regulated skill development, and exposure to rare situations, drawbacks include costs, ethical concerns, and replicating real-world complexity. Ongoing research is crucial to assess the effectiveness of SBME and its impact on patient outcomes. The evolving significance of SBME in anaesthesiology suggests its continued promise for breakthroughs in medical education.