Purpose: To
summarize the available data on the benefits of the use of simulation in
training obstetric providers.
Background: Although simulation is being increasingly used to train obstetric
providers, its overall benefit has not been systematically assessed.
Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE was performed from May 2011 until April
2017 to identify research evaluating simulation in obstetrics. Data regarding
provider type, instructional design, outcomes, and research quality, using the
medical education research study quality index (MERSQI) and Newcastle-Ottawa
Scale for Education (NOS-E), was abstracted. The average weighted Hedges g
effect size was calculated.
Results: 1423 articles were identified, of which 63 met inclusion criteria.
39 were excluded because they were 1 group pretest-posttest studies (which
nearly always show positive effects), and 5 were excluded because they did not
contain sufficient information to calculate effect size, leaving 19 articles in
the meta-analysis. Of the selected articles 15 were randomized, 3 were
nonrandomized, and 1 was a cross-over study. Provider satisfaction was
assessed in 2 studies, knowledge in 1, simulated skills in 11, clinical
behaviors in 4, and patient effects in 1. The average MERSQI and NOS-E
quality scores were 13.3±23 (out of 18) and 5±0.8 (out of 6),
respectively. The weighted average effect size for the 19 studies was
0.71 (95% CI, 0.58-0.83).
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2018, Student, Resident, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Residency Director, Patient Care, Medical Knowledge, Interpersonal & Communication Skills, GME, CME, UME, Simulation, General Ob-Gyn,
Joshua Nitsche, MD, PhD
