Evaluating the use of role-play simulations in teaching management of medical emergencies in the dental clinic

Background Practical hands-on training is necessary for clinical competence in managing medical emergencies in the dental setting. Therefore, the King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Dentistry developed a role-play simulation-based clinical module for training clinical years (Years 4, 5, and 6) dental students in medical emergency management between 2016 and 2020. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and skills of years 4, 5, and 6 dental students before and after the completion of the role-play simulation-based medical emergency training module. Methods A mandatory four-hour annual training module was designed consisting of a 45-minute lecture on the medical emergency basic action plan and overview, four hands-on stations, and six role-play simulation-based medical emergency stations. A 16-item multiple choice test was used to assess the knowledge of the students before and after the training module every academic year. An objective structured clinical exam (OSCE) on a medical emergency scenario was administered to the students graduating each year. The difference between the pre- and post-module test scores and the one-time OSCE pass/fail rate were analyzed statistically using appropriate tests. Results A total of 846 students participated in the study between 2017 and 2020: 275 once, 483 twice, 87 thrice, and one participated four times; in total, 1,506 assessments were conducted. Overall, the pre-test and post-test mean scores were 9.4 ± 3.0 and 13.5 ± 1.6, respectively. All students showed significant improvements in the post-test scores compared to the pre-test scores. Year 4 students showed the highest improvement, followed by Year 5 and Year 6. There was a statistically significant association between the pass/fail rate of the OSCE station and the number of times the module was taken. Conclusions The significant improvement in the scores of clinical year students in this study supports an annual mandate for all dental students to undergo simulation-based competency training in their clinical years. Teaching institutions are recommended to utilize simulation and hands-on instruction to teach medical emergency management.