High-Fidelity Hybrid Simulation: A Novel Approach to Teaching Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology

Abstract

Study objective: To describe a hybrid simulation model for pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) examination teaching, to evaluate if it would be feasible to be conducted as a part of the PAG training, and to find out how it would be perceived by the trainees.

Design: The development process and a 2-day workshop is presented.

Setting: An academic 2-day PAG simulation training at the Medical University of Lublin Centre of Medical Simulation.

Participants: Twenty-two obstetrics and gynecology and pediatric residents from various hospitals of the Lublin county region.

Interventions: Participants took part in a 2-day simulation-based workshop consisting of a theoretical part and 3 high-fidelity PAG simulation scenarios, followed by an anonymous feedback survey on their opinions about the hybrid model teaching strategy.

Main outcome measures: To describe and evaluate feasibility of a hybrid simulation model for PAG examination teaching and to report students' satisfaction and acceptance of this teaching modality; to share faculty experience and lessons learned during the development process.

Results: Of 22 initially enrolled residents, 16 of them completed the simulation-based session. All but 1 participant preferred a hybrid model to a task trainer as a teaching modality. The same number of surveyed residents stated that they learned more using the hybrid model. Qualitative feedback from the participants was overall positive.

Conclusion: A hybrid model for teaching PAG examination is feasible and greatly accepted by the trainees. We are convinced that such a model of training can improve trainees' skills and translate to PAG patients' comfort and safety. It could be potentially used in teaching more difficult procedures (eg, intrauterine device insertion or examination after sexual assault).

Keywords: Education; Gynecology; High-fidelity; Hybrid model; PAG pelvic exam; Pediatric and adolescent; Resident; Simulation; Teaching.