Simulation Research Roundup (May 2023)

Here at i3 Simulations, we're always up-to-date with new research in simulation, education, and Extended Reality (XR) technology. We've decided to share this knowledge through a monthly blog series, where we'll be sharing the latest evidence on how XR simulations are transforming medical training.

Here's what's new this month: gamification of non-technical skills teaching for doctors, immersive VR simulation training for prelicensure nursing students, and immersive VR simulation for cross-cultural communication skills.

To find out more information about XR technology in simulation training, check out our?evidence overview, trial the?training software, or?contact us?for more information and any research questions!

Gamification of non-technical skills teaching for doctors returning to training

J. A. Keitley et al., International Journal of Healthcare Simulation (2023)

The research paper describes the development of a course focusing on non-technical skills (NTS) training for SuppoRTT trainees using gamified learning methods, including an escape room and a virtual reality (VR) workshop. The VR workshop, which involved defusing a virtual bomb with the help of a team, was found to be an enjoyable and immersive experience. This suggests that VR can be a valuable tool for enhancing NTS training in clinical settings, allowing trainees to practice communication, situational awareness, and teamwork in realistic and engaging virtual environments.

The Development and Pilot Testing of Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation Training for Prelicensure Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study

B. Cieslowski et al., Clinical Simulation in Nursing (2023)

This pilot study examined the effectiveness of an immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation training program as a replacement for traditional pediatric clinical or hospital-based training for junior-level prelicensure nursing students. The results showed that the immersive VR training group achieved significantly higher performance scores compared to the hospital-based training group. These findings demonstrate the potential of VR in nursing education, suggesting that VR training can be as effective as inpatient training for developing competency in caring for acute care pediatric patients. These preliminary results highlight the promising role of VR in addressing the challenges of limited clinical site placements and engaging learners in nursing education.

An Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation for Cross-Cultural Communication Skills: Development and Feasibility

D. Chae et al., Clinical Simulation in Nursing (2023)

The study developed a feasible immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation called SimCARE, which successfully improved cross-cultural communication skills among undergraduate nursing students. The VR simulation, designed using the constructivist orientation of adult learning, created a sense of presence and realism through authentic scenarios, audio recordings by immigrants, and realistic avatar appearance and movement. SimCARE demonstrated high usability, provided opportunities for repetitive learning, and received high satisfaction ratings from participants. This research highlights the potential of VR in facilitating learning tasks that would be impractical or unavailable in real-world settings, offering valuable opportunities for undergraduate nursing students to develop cultural competence and enhance patient care.

In conclusion, the journey into the evolving world of XR technology and its transformative impact on medical training is one we are excited to share with you through our monthly blog series. This is a rapidly changing field and we believe that keeping you informed is part of our commitment to excellence. Don't hesitate to reach out with questions or if you require more information - we're here to assist you every step of the way. Stay tuned for our next instalment, and together let's embrace the future of medical training.