Efficiency of Operating Room Simulation for Training Medical Students at King Saud University (EORMST-KSU)

This study aims to assess the impact of simulation-based training on the development of anesthesia skills and clinical decision-making in medical students enrolled in the MEDI045 Basic Anesthesia and Resuscitation course at King Saud University. The primary intervention involves the integration of SimMan 3G high-fidelity simulators within the course curriculum, providing students with immersive, realistic scenarios that closely replicate the dynamic conditions of a real operating room (OR).

The key focus areas of the study include:

Technical Skills Development: The study will evaluate students' proficiency in performing essential anesthesia tasks, such as airway management, drug administration, and patient monitoring. Skills will be assessed through both pre- and post-simulation tests to measure improvements in technique and dexterity.

Decision-Making and Critical Thinking: By simulating high-pressure scenarios, the study aims to evaluate how well students make decisions under stress, particularly with respect to patient safety. Students' abilities to assess and respond to fluctuating clinical conditions will be analyzed, with a focus on minimizing errors and improving patient outcomes.

Student Adaptability: A key objective of the study is to measure students' adaptability in managing unforeseen complications. The simulations will expose students to a range of emergency situations, such as intraoperative crises, and evaluate their ability to maintain composure and provide effective care.

Student Satisfaction and Confidence: Post-simulation surveys and structured debriefing sessions will be used to gather qualitative data on student satisfaction and perceived confidence in their ability to manage anesthesia in real-world settings.

The study uses a mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative analysis (using pre- and post-test scores and statistical methods like t-tests and chi-square tests) with qualitative data (from surveys and debriefing sessions). The study will measure not only technical proficiency but also examine how simulation influences students' psychological readiness and communication skills within a team-based environment.

Data gathered will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based training in improving both anesthesia skills and decision-making abilities. The results will inform future curriculum improvements, with the goal of enhancing patient safety, communication, and teamwork within medical education.

Inclusion criteria

• Medical students enrolled in the MEDI045 Basic Anesthesia and Resuscitation course at King Saud University.
• Students in their fourth year of medical school.
• Consent to participate in simulation-based training and data collection.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions in English.

Exclusion criteria

• Students who have previously undergone simulation-based anesthesia training.
• Students who are not in good academic standing.
• Students with documented medical conditions that could affect their ability to participate in simulation sessions (e.g., severe anxiety or motion sickness).