SC39 Using sim-competition to enhance and augment interest and participation: an inaugural national sub-speciality contest in paediatrics

2019 
Background Simulation-based education is now a well-established part of undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare education. However, many healthcare teams still experience challenges with providing this due to limited staff engagement. ‘Play is the highest form of research’ is a well-known quote that has been attributed to Albert Einstein. However, concerns about performing in ‘make-belief’ simulations & peer-critique inhibit participation and impede sim-based education credentials. Summary of project We conceived, designed, facilitated and evaluated N. Ireland’s inaugural ‘Sim-off competition’. This was devised as a fun, educational opportunity to improve knowledge of Paediatric conditions, to aid networking, and act as an inter-speciality and multi-professional event. It was the first national sim-off competition in any speciality across the UK & Ireland. The contest ran as an informal ‘round robin’ competition with 10 competing teams representing hospitals from all 5 NI Healthcare trusts, a University APNP team and a Paediatric EM team from Dublin. Our prestigious judging panel comprised of 5 experienced paediatric clinicians with expertise in clinical education. Several moderate complexity scenarios were designed. Team marks were awarded for both technical and non-technical skills. Summary of results 114 people attended this inaugural event in QUB Riddel Hall on Friday 15th June 2018. There were 44 Paediatric ST1-8 trainees as well as 70 other attendee’s. 26 doctors & 20 nurses formed the 10 competing teams. Feedback was received from 21 participants and 11 observers. 85% of those (27 people) felt that performing simulation as a competition enhanced the educational experience. Some comments included: ‘Extremely enjoyable day- competitive side of sim added to the experience’, and ‘An exemplary day of education. Well done to all involved on an excellent concept!’ Discussion This inaugural ‘sim-off’ contest has provided trainees and sim-enthusiasts an ideal opportunity to engage in an informal competition, enhance perceptions of sim-based education & generate region-wide enthusiasm. It is hoped this will be used as a platform for further similar events in undergraduate intervarsity competitions, and at a postgraduate level within various specialities (such as Anaesthetics, Emergency Medicine) as well as potentially run as a biennial event in Paediatrics.
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