Informed operators: speeding up genetic-algorithm-based design optimization using reduced models

BackgroundSimulation technology is being increasingly adopted into medical education and is consistently associated with positive effects on knowledge, skills, and patient‐related outcomes. There is little evidence on the use of simulation technology for the instruction of urgent medical complications to physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) residents.ObjectiveTo examine whether a simulation‐based educational program can improve PM&R resident confidence and knowledge in the assessment and management of urgent medical complications.DesignPretest‐posttest design.SettingAcademic freestanding acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital.ParticipantsTwelve Post‐Graduate Year (PGY)‐2 PM&R residents at the start of the academic year.MethodsResidents completed an integrated didactic and simulation‐based curriculum on the assessment and management of five urgent medical complications: seizures, agitation, ventricular assist device (VAD)‐associated complications, sympathetic storming, and autonomic dysreflexia. Simulations were conducted using a high‐fidelity manikin.Main Outcome MeasurementsSurveys and knowledge assessments were completed at baseline and immediately following training. Survey responses were recorded on a Likert scale ranging from 1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree. Multiple‐choice knowledge assessments were scored out of 100%. Within‐group differences from baseline to postintervention were analyzed.ResultsThere was a positive correlation between baseline experience and baseline confidence scores (r = 0.877). Improved confidence was demonstrated in the assessment and management of all five topics (P < .05). Knowledge assessment scores significantly improved from 57.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50.6% to 65.4%) at baseline to 85.0% (95% CI 81.6% to 88.4%) following the course (P < .001). The education program was rated highly by both learners (mean satisfaction score, Likert score [LS] = 4.6) and instructors (mean satisfaction score, LS = 4.5).ConclusionsApplication of a simulation‐based educational model to the instruction of urgent medical complications to PM&R residents resulted in increased knowledge with added benefits of confidence building and high levels of enjoyment.Level of EvidenceII