Horlait G, Niemants J, Gerard V, Hanchard B, Bihin B, Sauvage R
Aim of the study: Debriefing is central to simulation-based education. As its optimal format is unknown, video-feedback may optimize the learning process. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the potential benefits of videoassisted oral debriefing (VAOD) versus oral debriefing alone (ODA) for improving performance in a Basic Life Support with an Automated External Defibrillator (BLS/ AED) scenario.
Methods: One hundred and forty candidates (physicians and nurses) were enrolled in the study. After performing a pretest scenario, participants were randomized into two groups to receive a facilitated debriefing: either ODA or VAOD. Participants were then asked to complete a posttest scenario. Pre- and posttests were video recorded to allow a blinded independent reviewer to rate each participant’s skills in both tests, using the European Resuscitation Council BLS/AED provider assessment record tool.
Results: Overall BLS/AED resuscitation performance scores improved in both groups [mean (SD), 57.08% (1.77%) for ODA pretests vs. 89.77% (2.15%) for ODA posttests (p<0.001); 64.31% (2.54%) for VAOD pretests vs. 91.15% (3.08%) for VAOD posttests (p=0.06)]. Score improvement was not found to be very different between the two groups (+33% for ODA vs. +27% for VAOD, p=0.06).
Conclusion: Using VAOD in human resuscitation simulation did not show any advantage over ODA and did not enhance its impact on the participants’ perception. However, our results suggested that the use of a debriefing process (either oral or video-assisted) contributes to a significant improvement in resuscitation skills.
