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Sustained effect of simulation‐based ultrasound training on clinical performance: a randomized trial
Author(s) -
Tolsgaard M. G.,
Ringsted C.,
Dreisler E.,
Nørgaard L. N.,
Petersen J. H.,
Madsen M. E.,
Freiesleben N. L. C.,
Sørensen J. L.,
Tabor A.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.202
H-Index - 141
eISSN - 1469-0705
pISSN - 0960-7692
DOI - 10.1002/uog.14780
Subject(s) - medicine , randomized controlled trial , simulation training , ultrasound , physical therapy , clinical trial , obstetrics and gynaecology , clinical efficacy , surgery , radiology , pregnancy , simulation , genetics , biology , engineering
Abstract Objective To study the effect of initial simulation‐based transvaginal sonography ( TVS ) training compared with clinical training only, on the clinical performance of residents in obstetrics and gynecology ( Ob‐Gyn ), assessed 2 months into their residency. Methods In a randomized study, new Ob‐Gyn residents ( n = 33) with no prior ultrasound experience were recruited from three teaching hospitals. Participants were allocated to either simulation‐based training followed by clinical training (intervention group; n = 18) or clinical training only (control group; n = 15). The simulation‐based training was performed using a virtual‐reality TVS simulator until an expert performance level was attained, and was followed by training on a pelvic mannequin. After 2 months of clinical training, one TVS examination was recorded for assessment of each resident's clinical performance ( n = 26). Two ultrasound experts blinded to group allocation rated the scans using the Objective Structured Assessment of Ultrasound Skills ( OSAUS ) scale. Results During the 2 months of clinical training, participants in the intervention and control groups completed an average ± SD of 58 ± 41 and 63 ± 47 scans, respectively ( P = 0.67). In the subsequent clinical performance test, the intervention group achieved higher OSAUS scores than did the control group (mean score, 59.1% vs 37.6%, respectively; P < 0.001). A greater proportion of the intervention group passed a pre‐established pass/fail level than did controls (85.7% vs 8.3%, respectively; P < 0.001). Conclusion Simulation‐based ultrasound training leads to substantial improvement in clinical performance that is sustained after 2 months of clinical training. © 2015 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.