The Impact of Simulation Training on Junior Doctors Managing Surgical Emergencies

Abstract Aim The use of simulation for the training of junior doctors in surgery usually involves either practicing technical skills or exercising communication skills. We have identified a gap in crisis resource management training of junior surgical trainees with scenario-based simulation. We have developed a one-day simulation course on general surgical emergencies and evaluated its impact. Methods The course included a human factors presentation and several scenarios of acute surgical emergencies. It was aimed at core surgical trainees, but other junior doctors were invited. High fidelity human simulator (SimMan®) was used and controlled by faculty. Surgical scenarios were selected in order to provide insight for the appropriate resuscitation for acute surgical patients. The impact of the course was evaluated with a post course questionnaire. Results Ten courses were completed between 2015 and 2021. A total of 58 doctors attended, 45 were core surgical trainees. All 51 participants who responded to the questionnaire rated the course “Good (4/5)” or “Excellent (5/5)”. Following the course, of 51 participants, 50 felt better prepared and 51 were confident in recognising unwell surgical patients; 42 felt better prepared and 50 confident in providing resuscitation; 46 felt better prepared and 51 confident in escalating care. During debriefs and on free text feedback, participants frequently reported the course helped develop their non-technical skills. Conclusion The General Surgical Emergencies simulation courses were rated useful by the learners. The course has positively impacted on the preparedness and confidence of junior surgical trainees in recognising unwell surgical patients, providing initial resuscitation and escalating care.