Evaluation of Introduction of Simulation-Based Training to Interns

BACKGROUND Interns lack practical skills and knowledge regarding emergency lifesaving procedures, especially endotracheal intubation. Even though it is a lifesaving procedure, interns are trained only during their posting in anaesthesia or emergency medicine and so, when need arises, they fail to perform endotracheal intubation, and this leads to catastrophes. We wanted to evaluate the knowledge and skills of endotracheal intubation gained by interns through simulation-based training. METHODS Hundred consenting interns were recruited for the study after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Mannequin was procured, peers were sensitized, and literature was searched for standard protocol for endotracheal intubation. Feedback form was framed for all stakeholders. IRB approval was obtained, and faculty training was done. After a pre-test, a small sensitization was given regarding endotracheal intubation. Mannequin demonstration was then done by the faculty and doubts were clarified. Then the interns were asked to perform the intubation and post-test was given. Feedback was collected from the students as well as from faculty. Data was compiled and analysed. RESULTS Interns showed mean marks of 6.98 +/- 1.43 in pre-test compared to 13.19 +/- 0.741 out of 15 marks post-test with (p= 0.0001), which is highly significant. 80% of interns were satisfied with simulation-based teaching. 75% of interns were able to perform the procedure in the 1st attempt. CONCLUSIONS The training on mannequin developed competency, basic knowledge, and practice of endotracheal intubation in interns adequately. Training should be carried out at the beginning of internship when they start internship and also in rotation of emergency department. So, they gain competency that is required. In due course, morbidity and mortality due to airway related consequences will reduce if all interns are given hands-on training for intubation on mannequin.