title: Simulation training for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a complex treatment. Despite this, there are a lack of training programs designed to develop relevant clinical and nonclinical skills required for ECMO specialists. The aim of the current study was to describe the design, implementation and evaluation of a 1-day simulation course for delivering training in ECMO.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 1-day simulation course was developed with educational and intensive care experts. First, the delegates received a lecture on the principles of simulation training and the importance of human factors. This was, followed by a practical demonstration and discussion of the ECMO circuit, console components, circuit interactions effects and potential complications. There were then five ECMO simulation scenarios with debriefing that covered technical and nontechnical issues. The course culminated in a knowledge-based assessment. Course outcomes were assessed using purpose-designed questionnaires.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We held 3 courses with a total of 14 delegates (9 intensive care nurses, 3 adult intensive care consultants and 2 ECMO technicians). Following the course, 8 (57%) gained familiarity in troubleshooting an ECMO circuit, 6 (43%) increased their familiarity with the ECMO pump and circuit, 8 (57%) perceived an improvement in their communication skills and 7 (50%) perceived an improvement in their leadership skills. At the end of the course, 13 (93%) delegates agreed that they felt more confident in dealing with ECMO.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Simulation-training courses may increase knowledge and confidence in dealing with ECMO emergencies. Further studies are indicated to determine whether simulation training improves clinical outcomes and translates to reduced complication rates in patients receiving ECMO.
authors: Department of Education and Simulation, Weston Education Centre, King's College Hospital, London, SE5 9RS, UK.
authors: Roberta
authors: R
authors: Brum
authors: Ronak
authors: R
authors: Rajani
authors: Elton
authors: E
authors: Gelandt
authors: Lisa
authors: L
authors: Morgan
authors: Nira
authors: N
authors: Raguseelan
authors: Salman
authors: S
authors: Butt
authors: David
authors: D
authors: Nelmes
authors: Georg
authors: G
authors: Auzinger
authors: Simon
authors: S
authors: Broughton
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D003422:Critical Care; D015199:Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D010348:Patient Care Team; D000066908:Simulation Training / Q000379:methods*