Optimise Simulation through Pre-Sim Virtual Case Rehearsal

Problem Statement:

Traditional methods (lectures, texts, slides) may insufficiently develop theoretical preparedness and clinical reasoning, leading to inconsistent performance and suboptimal use of valuable simulation center resources.

Hypothesis:

Running cases on virtual simulated patients (VSPs) before simulation center practice enhances performance and boosts knowledge retention.

Aim:

To determine the impact of VSP cases prior to simulation center sessions, including performance in simulation tasks, clinical decision-making efficiency, and long-term knowledge retention.

Methodology:

Students will be divided into two groups:

(1) Control: preparation according to the recommended literature;
(2) Research: running cases on VSPs 1–5 days before simulation.

All students will take a baseline test, participate in the same simulations (assessed by blinded evaluators on standardized checklists), complete a post-test, and take a follow-up test after 4–6 weeks to measure retention. Performance, reasoning, and knowledge retention will be compared.