Target-focused medical emergency team training using a human patient simulator: effects on behaviour and attitude.
BACKGROUND
Full-scale simulation training is an accepted learning method for gaining behavioural skills in team-centred domains such as aviation, the nuclear power industry and, recently, medicine. In this study we evaluated the effects of a simulator team training method based on targets and known principles in cognitive psychology.


METHODS
This method was developed and adapted for a medical emergency team. In particular, we created a trauma team course for novices, and allowed 15 students to practise team skills in 5 full-scale scenarios. Students' team behaviour was video-recorded and students' attitude towards safe teamwork was assessed using a questionnaire before and after team practice.


RESULTS
Nine of 10 observed team skills improved significantly in response to practice, in parallel with a global rating of team skills. In contrast, no change in attitude toward safe teamwork was registered.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of team skills in 5 scenarios in a full-scale patient simulator environment implementing a training method based on targets and known principles in cognitive psychology improved individual team skills but had no immediate effect on attitude toward safe patient care.
Wallin
Carl-Johan
CJ
Department for Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. carl-johan.wallin@ki.se
Meurling
Lisbet
L
Hedman
Leif
L
Hedegård
Jan
J
Felländer-Tsai
Li
L
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000193:education*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008297:Male; D010348:Patient Care Team; D016544:Patient Simulation; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*