The Use of in situ Simulation in Healthcare Education: Current Perspectives

• Main Authors: Martin A, Cross S, Attoe C
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dove Medical Press 2020-11-01
• Series: Advances in Medical Education and Practice
• Subjects: simulation-based education; clinical training; simulated practice; technology-enhanced learning; health professions
• Online Access: https://www.dovepress.com/the-use-of-in-situ-simulation-in-healthcare-education-current-perspect-peer-reviewed-article-AMEP

Anastasia Martin,1 Sean Cross,2 Chris Attoe2 1Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK; 2Maudsley Learning, South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UKCorrespondence: Chris AttoeMaudsley Learning, South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Lambeth Hospital, Reay House, 108 Landor Road, London SW9 9NU, UKTel [phone]Email [e-mail]: In situ simulation is the practice of using simulated scenarios in a clinical environment itself rather than in training facilities to promote learning and improved clinical care. The use of in situ simulation has been increasingly used to train healthcare staff in dealing with emergencies, resuscitation and clinical skills. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the themes, perspectives and approaches to in situ simulation for educational purposes with healthcare staff. The literature search included studies describing and evaluating in situ simulations with an educational component. We carried out a narrative synthesis and extracted data on the clinical setting, the simulation purpose, design, evaluation method and impact. In situ simulation has proved useful in a range of different specialties for skills improvement and team development. Simulation design ranges in terms of fidelity, duration and topic. No specific design has shown to be the most efficient. However, adopting a design that fits into the specific centers resources, educational needs and clinical demands is the most important consideration.Keywords: simulation-based education, clinical training, simulated practice, technology-enhanced learning, health professions