Teaching pathological physiology of sepsis using a high-fidelity simulator.

Abstract

A good knowledge of the theoretical foundations of medicine helps students and physicians to better recognize and treat patients with complex medical conditions, including sepsis and septic shock. The article describes the authors' experience in implementing the analysis of sepsis and septic shock using a high-fidelity simulated clinical scenario in the course of pathological physiology for preclinical medical students. The unique aspect of our approach is the integration of core physiology concepts, such as homeostasis, causality, structure-function relationships, and fundamental pathophysiology concepts (e.g., etiology, pathogenesis, cell and tissue damage, inflammation, symptoms, and syndromes) in the analysis of the patient's condition on the high-fidelity simulator with preclinical medical students. According to the students' feedback, the use of a high-fidelity simulator to analyze the sepsis and septic shock scenario increased their interest in the class, improved their motivation to learn the material, and helped them adapt in a safe environment to making decisions based on a large amount of data about a complex patient condition in a time-sensitive situation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The authors applied core theoretical concepts of physiology and the fundamental concepts of pathological physiology for teaching sepsis and septic shock clinical scenarios on the high-fidelity simulator in the course of pathological physiology for preclinical medical students. It elevated students' interest and motivation, enhanced the educational experience, and prepared students better for real-world clinical decision-making. We consider that this idea might be an inspiration to colleagues and invite further discussion.