Simulation in maternal-fetal medicine: making a case for the need

Abstract

Medical error remains a cause for concern in obstetrics. Studies have shown that the most important contributing factors to adverse events in obstetrics often relate to poor teamwork and ineffective communication. A potential solution to these problems includes transforming institutions, obstetric departments, and maternal-fetal medicine divisions into high-reliability organizations. Simulation is a valuable tool which can be utilized, in obstetrics and maternal-fetal medicine, as an integral part of programs designed to advance knowledge and technical skills; improve communication and team function; and identify and correct systems issues. Simulation should be an integral part of our journey towards high reliability with the ultimate goal of improving patient safety and quality of care in obstetrics.