Simulation in obstetric anesthesia: an update.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Simulation training (crew resource management training and scenario training) has become an important tool in the education of anesthesiologists. This review summarizes recent research performed in this area, focusing more specifically on obstetric anesthesia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Simulation training is becoming more integrated in the modern education of anesthesiologists. Research regarding the most effective way to perform simulation training in terms of learning outcomes and long-term skill retention has started to appear. Scenarios which are played independently and that allow for simulated mortality, as well as relaxation techniques before debriefing might have positive effects in this regard. Furthermore, simulation has been investigated as a tool to improve patient safety in low-resource settings. In addition, simulation training in the domain of obstetrics has been rapidly expanding and has an important role in this field of medicine as well.

SUMMARY

Simulation training has acquired a central role in modern education of anesthesiologists. Further research regarding elements to optimize simulation training in terms of learning outcomes and long-term skill retention is desirable. In addition, little data exist concerning the effect of simulation training on possible improvement of patient outcomes in anesthesia.