Simulation-based training in ear, nose and throat skills and emergencies

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to compare lecture-based teaching and simulation-based hybrid training for ENT induction and objectively assess the performance of trainees in a simulated environment. METHODS: This is a prospective interventional study that included 60 interns in their rotatory internship with no prior exposure to ENT emergencies. The interns came in batches of 5‒6 for their 15-days ENT postings. On the first day, a pre-test questionnaire, lecture-based teaching on three scenarios and then allocation into one of the three simulation groups- Group A (Tracheostomy group), Group B (Nasogastric tube group), and Group C (Epistaxis group) was done. Hands-on simulation training was given only to the assigned group. At the end of 15-days, post-test questionnaire and an objective assessment of the three scenarios in a simulated environment was conducted. The same training was repeated for each batch of participants who attended the posting. RESULTS: The participants had significant improvement in the post-test scores in all three scenarios (p < 0.05), and these improvements were marked in those who had received simulated training. On comparing simulation scores, the participants who received hands-on training on a particular scenario outperformed other (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Simulation-based training improves cognition and overall confidence in managing ENT skills and emergencies. In simulation training, objective and standardized assessment is the key to achieve specific learning objectives to improve the psychomotor and cognitive skill. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.