High-fidelity simulation in neonatal resuscitation.
BACKGROUND
There are currently few studies describing the use of high-fidelity (hi-fi) simulation in teaching neonatal resuscitation. Traditionally, residents are certified in the neonatal resuscitation program (NRP) after successful completion of a multiple-choice written examination and demonstration of skills during a hands-on 'mega-code'. In the present study, the use of a hi-fi simulation mannequin was compared with a standard plastic mannequin when teaching the megacode portion of the NRP.


METHODS
In the present pilot study, 15 first-year residents were randomly assigned to demonstrate neonatal resuscitation knowledge, with either the hi-fi mannequin (SimBaby, Laerdal Medical Corporation, USA) or a traditional plastic mannequin (ALS Baby, Laerdal Medical Corporation, USA). A written evaluation was conducted before and after the intervention. Each pair of residents experienced the two scenarios. Video performance was then assessed and compared.


RESULTS
Residents randomly assigned to the hi-fi mannequin rated the experience higher (31+/-3.3 versus 27+/-3.5; P=0.026), and required less redirection from instructors during the megacode (scenario 1: 4.5+/-1.7 versus 15+/-6.9; P=0.015 and scenario 2: 1.8+/-1.3 versus 9.3+/-2.5; P=0.0009) than those who were randomly assigned to the plastic mannequin. Residents randomly assigned to the hi-fi mannequin did not have improved written scores or improved intubation times.


CONCLUSIONS
The present pilot study demonstrated that a hi-fi mannequin can be used as part of an educational program, such as the NRP. The use of this technology in neonatal resuscitation training is well-received by learners and may provide a more realistic model for training. Further work is required to clarify its role in task performance and team training.
Department of Paediatrics, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario.
Douglas M
DM
Campbell
Tony
T
Barozzino
Michael
M
Farrugia
Michael
M
Sgro