Impact of Simulation-Based Learning on Clinical Skills Acquisition among Medical Students

¹Asad Jahangir, ²Dr Sadaf Akram, ³Umar Tipu, ⁴Zamin Abbas, ⁵Dr Ahmad Shahzad, ⁶Hadi Raza.

¹Mayo Hospital, Lahore

²Institute of public health Lahore     

³Sir Gangaram Hospital, Lahore

⁴PIMS, Islamabad

⁵UHS, Lahore

⁶PIMS, Islamabad

Abstract

Background: Simulation-based learning (SBL) is an educational intervention technique used in medical schools which provides students with chances to hone their clinical skills in a secure and controlled environment. Traditional methods may not provide adequate chances for practicing clinical skills, and at times, patients are put under risk in the process of learning.

Objectives: This paper seeks to determine the influence of simulation-based learning on the acquisition of clinical skills among undergraduate medical students.

Methodology: Quasi-experimental research was carried out among a sample size of 100 undergraduate medical students comprising third- and fourth-year medical students who participated in a well-structured simulation-based training program in areas such as patient assessment, communication, clinical exam, and procedural skills. OSCE and self-efficacy assessments were carried out prior to and after the training using descriptive and inferential analysis methods.

Results: There were remarkable changes in the clinical skills competency of the participants post simulation-based training. The average OSCE score rose from 65.2 ± 8.4 before training to 82.7 ± 6.1 after training. There were also remarkable gains in confidence in performing the skills.

Conclusion: SBL may be crucial for improving the process of learning clinical skills and increasing medical students’ confidence and preparedness. Incorporating simulation into the educational program for undergrad medicine will participate to learning results and increase patient safety.

Keywords: Simulation-based learning, Clinical skills, Medical students, OSCE, Medical education, Clinical competence, Experience-based learning, Health-care training sessions.