6394 Mind the youths: integrating mental health into low fidelity simulation for paediatric trainees

Objectives Child and adolescent mental health is a key area of paediatrics that requires targeted knowledge and skills to navigate. It is an area with often challenging, emotive and unpredictable scenarios that can benefit greatly from a practitioner that can approach them confidently and competently to ensure the care standards of these children and young people (CYP) matches that of the physically ailed. It is often seen amongst trainees that there is hesitancy and low-confidence in approaching discussions with CYP about mental health (MH) and its treatment. Additionally, MH is now encompassed in the core Progress+ curriculum for paediatric trainees. The East of England ST1–4 simulation teaching committee has aimed to increase trainee confidence and competency in MH scenarios through integration into low-fidelity simulation days both at the start of training, ST1, and in registrar transition, ST2–4. Methods Working with a trainee with a special interest in MH (CAMHS GRID) we integrated a MH simulation into two distinct simulation days for trainees – ST1 simulation and 'Ready for Registrar' days and assembled an additional focused MH simulation day. These utilise low fidelity, face to face simulation equipment and actors, following a standard simulation model for briefing and debriefing participants. One 'simulation day' typically included 6 scenarios of which one was MH focused. Results There was a clear and distinct increase in confidence and competence reported by trainees both participating within scenarios and/or debrief sessions. This was on par with traditional medical scenarios and was valued across all levels of trainee participant. Highlights include an increase in confidence-rating in Paediatric ST1 doctors from 73% stating 'Not confident' pre-course, to 64% 'confident', 7% 'very confident' and 0% 'not confident' after completing a MH scenario as part of wider simulation teaching. Conclusion We propose it is a vital consideration to include MH simulation when planning holistic teaching to improve trainee practice. We recommend the engagement of higher trainees and/or consultants in CAMHS to guide sessions and debrief participants. We demonstrate that both singular scenarios and dedicated MH simulation days can add value to a trainee's development and progression pathway. We shall continue to collect a robust qualitative dataset in sessions within the 2023/24 trainee calendar year and encourage paediatric educators around the UK to consider MH simulation a vital tool in delivering paediatric training.