2846 How can simulation training be used to teach skills in human factors (HF)?

Abstract

Introduction Simulation training is a valuable resource to teach clinical skills and mimic emergency settings. Human factors (HF) are non-technical skills that are affected by human attitudes and behaviours. Weaknesses in human factors can cause fatal medical errors. We wanted to assess if simulation can be used as a tool to improve these. We conducted two simulation training days for medical higher specialty trainees (HST) focusing on HF. Methods 20 HSTs participated in 10 simulated scenarios. Scenarios involved using a high-fidelity manikin and actors. The scenarios were a mixture of long and short cases, including both clinical and non-clinical scenarios with a HF focus. Pre- and post-session questionnaires were used to rate confidence levels in a series of specific HF. A 10-point Likert scale was used. Results The majority of participants had a firm understanding of the importance of human factors in healthcare, especially the importance of teamwork, compassion, communication and situational awareness. 70% of participants felt that human factors training may not be adequately considered in current training pathways due to limited formal exposure, limited time, and its importance being underestimated. There was an increase in confidence in: managing disagreements (31%), negative emotions (38%), prioritisation (28%), delegation (23%), teamwork (34%) and leadership skills (30%), dealing with uncertainty (29%), challenging hierarchy (27%), anticipation (31%). 100% felt simulation training helped to develop their attainment of human factor skills. Conclusion This form of simulation training was successful in improving confidence and understanding of human factors in healthcare and showcased the value of using high-fidelity training to realistically recreate the clinical environment. Going forward, this type of teaching could be integrated within the specialty training curriculum to formally improve skills in human factors and therefore improve patient outcomes and relationships between team members, thus contributing to a more positive working environment.