The use of simulation training module to train surgical residents in the focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST)

Introduction: The focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) is a commonly used and life-saving tool in the initial assessment of trauma patients. Surgical residents being trained through lectures and hands-on learning of ultrasound can be challenging; inclusion of novel educational strategies, such as simulation can be utilized. Thus this study ought to evaluate whether ultrasound simulator is a suitable alternative method for ultrasound education than the traditional methods.

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Method: Observational analytical study. Sixteen surgical residents were taken for the study, by lottery chit system they were segregated into to arm of eight each. One arm was with traditional hands on training and another arm was taught in Simulation skill lab on interpretation of FAST. The duration of study was 6 weeks, 2 hours per week. Knowledge content of FAST evaluated trough Pre-test and Post MCQ test (Identical) and OSCE assessment was done for their skill and interpretation of FAST. Evaluator was blinded to both groups. Chi square and student t test was used for statistical analysis.

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Result: All students showed significant improvement from pre- to post-test scores and significant improvement in comfort level using ultrasound in general and on FAST (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between groups on OSCE scores. Overall, no differences were demonstrated between groups trained on human models versus simulator.

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Conclusion: These findings suggest that an ultrasound simulator is a suitable alternative method for ultrasound education