High-fidelity simulation in anesthesiology training: a survey of Canadian anesthesiology residents' simulator experience.

PURPOSE: The objective of this survey was to explore Canadian anesthesiology residents' educational experience with high-fidelity simulation and to improve understanding of the factors perceived to have either a positive or a negative effect on residents' learning. METHODS: In 2008, all Canadian anesthesiology residents (n = 599) were invited to complete a ten-minute anonymous online survey. Survey questions were derived from two sources, a literature search of MEDLINE (1966 to present), EMBASE (1980 to present), and the Cochrane and Campbell collaboration libraries and the experience of 25 pilot residents and the lead author. RESULTS: The survey response rate was 27.9% (n = 167). Junior residents (PGY1-3) responded that it would be helpful to have an introductory simulation course dealing with common intraoperative emergencies. The introduction of multidisciplinary scenarios (where nurses and colleagues from different specialties were involved in scenarios) was strongly supported. With respect to gender, male anesthesia residents indicated their comfort in making mistakes and asking for help in the simulator more frequently than female residents. In accordance with the ten Best Evidence Medical Education (BEME) principles of successful simulator education, Canadian centres could improve residents' opportunities for repetitive practice (with feedback), individualization of scenarios, and defined learning outcomes for scenarios. DISCUSSION: Anesthesiology residents indicate that simulation-based education is an anxiety provoking experience, but value its role in promoting safe practice and enhancing one's ability to deal with emergency situations. Suggestions to improve simulation training include increasing residents' access, adopting a more student-centred approach to learning, and creating a safer learning environment.

Teaching and learning in the operating room is a two-way street: resident perceptions.

BACKGROUND: The transformation of a trainee into a surgeon is influenced strongly by communication patterns in the operating room (OR). In the current era of limited educational opportunities, elucidation of teaching and learning strategies in this environment is critical. The aim of this study was to further understand the elements of an effective communicative instructional interaction (CII) as perceived by surgical residents. METHODS: Qualitative research methodology was used to explore University of British Columbia surgery residents' perceptions of what constitutes an effective CII in the OR. Purposeful sampling was used to select participants from various years of training. Eighteen residents participated in semistructured interviews to facilitate reflection of their OR experiences. Interviews were transcribed, analyzed, and fed back to residents to confirm their accuracy. Independent coding and analysis led to the development of key emergent themes. RESULTS: Themes represented the interplay of ideals expressed by the residents. The primary emergent theme was that both teacher and learner play a major role in the creation of an effective CII. The ideal teacher had an instructional plan, facilitated surgical independence, and showed support and empathy for the surgical resident. The ideal resident was receptive, prepared, and acknowledged limitations. The contextual constraints of the OR played a central role in learning, and residents identified ways to maintain educational value despite primarily nonmodifiable contextual elements (ie, time constraints). CONCLUSIONS: In a unique environment such as the OR, both teacher and learner may benefit by an enhanced understanding of the elements of an effective CII.