Emergency and critical care pediatrics: use of medical simulation for training in acute pediatric emergencies

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Recent data suggest that pediatric trainees receive insufficient training to manage acute pediatric emergencies. This review addresses the use of medical simulation as a way for medical learners to acquire and maintain skills needed to manage pediatric resuscitations. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent work highlights the value of deliberate practice in the context of simulated medical environments to promote development of medical expertise. Several studies demonstrate the benefit of simulation-based training for improved skill acquisition in advanced life support, emergency airway management, and nontechnical skills. Work in other fields of medicine supports the integration of simulation into pediatric training programs. SUMMARY: Medical simulation holds great promise to enhance existing pediatric training curricula by increasing skills and expertise in resuscitation. Future research is needed to identify best methods of pediatric simulation-based training.