Abstract

RIANCHO, Javier; MAESTRE, José M.; MORAL, Ignacio del  and  RIANCHO, José A.. Realistic clinical simulation: an experience with undergraduate medical students. Educ. méd. [online]. 2012, vol.15, n.2, pp.109-115. ISSN 1575-1813.

Introduction. Realistic clinical simulation is commonly used with physicians and other health professionals. However it has been rarely used with undergraduate students. The aim of this study was to explore its feasibility and acceptance with medical students. Materials and methods. Eight clinical scenarios representing common acute problems in medical practice were designed and implemented using a realistic manikin. In two consecutive years, groups of 6-8 students attended two cases during 30 min, followed by a 25-40 period for assessment and feedback. Students opinion was obtained by anonymous questionnaires. Results. Students considered the activity both "useful" (4.8 and 4.9 points in a 5-point scale) and "interesting" (4.9 and 4.9 points). Designing each scenario required about 3 hours. During a work day of a teacher, a nurse and a technician, 40 students were exposed to two scenarios. Conclusions. This pilot study suggest that realistic clinical simulations is both feasible and well-accepted by medical students, with reasonable resource requirements. Nevertheless, other studies are needed to confirm their usefulness to improve student learning and clinical performance.

Keywords : Clinical medicine; Medical students; Simulation; Undergraduate.

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