High-fidelity Simulation and Critical Care Medicine

Abstract

High-fidelity simulation has become an important educational tool for initial and advanced training in critical life-threatening situation management. It naturally finds its place in the formation of medical and paramedical professionals working in intensive and critical unit, without risk for the patients. Its efficiency appears to be better than conventional learning methods for the improvement of knowledge and technical skills with increased long-term memory retention. It contributes to the development of non-technical skills and in especially to communication and teamwork, with a positive impact on the improvement of the quality of patient care. Inter-professional simulation training of a critical care team supports the implementation of a quality and risk management strategy. It encourages acceptance by medical and paramedical professionals, enhances team cohesiveness and improves working conditions. To achieve these objectives, the introduction of a simulation program must be carried out by instructors themselves qualified in this educational technique and skilled in providing a reflective debriefing in a constructive and positive climate. High-fidelity patient simulators remain expensive and fragile. While successful implementation in resident curriculum has been achieved, access to high-fidelity simulation in continuing education for medical and paramedical professionals working in critical care units is certainly still insufficient and needs to be developed.