SIMULATORS FOR TRAINING IN ANESTHESIA

Simulations using varying methodologies are being used to supplement training in anaesthesia as well as to aid assessment. Procedural skills can be effectively taught using physical models without placing real patients at risk. Computerised simulations facilitate the understanding of complex physiological and pharmacological phenomena and allow for experimentation with a wide range of conditions. Rare situations or complications can be created as scenarios on more advanced computer-based simulators. Real-life scenarios which reproduce the operating room environment, including monitoring equipment and personnel, with a mannikin for the patient, have also been created and assessed. Future developments in fields such as virtual reality are likely to provide the opportunity to explore and use such an environment entirely by computer simulation. As with any educational aid, simulations must have predetermined objectives and have their effectiveness in training programmes evaluated with pre-and post-testing of trainees. © 1994 Baillière Tindall.