This document proposes a study to determine the optimal frequency of simulation training to maintain competency in procedural skills. The study would randomly assign healthcare providers to groups that receive simulation training every 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months. Outcomes like confidence, skills performance, and competency would be measured before, during, and after the study to evaluate which frequency best helps providers maintain their skills over time. The document asks how to implement the study, whether it should be single or multi-center, and whether trainees or faculty should be involved.

1. The effect of simulation to
determine frequency for
competency skill training
Renuka Mehta, MD
Georgia Health Sciences University
IMSH 2013: Orlando, Florida / USA
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

2. Background
• Currently annual/biannual training is required to maintain
procedural/skills competency for most of the healthcare
providers (HCPs) by majority of the institution.
• Studies have indicated poor retention of knowledge and inability
to successfully perform uncommon procedure/skills.
• Without reinforcement, HCPs loose skills as early as 3-6 months
after training/retraining.
• Very few studies have looked into how frequently the
procedures/skills be performed to maintain competency.
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

3. PICO Question
• P: people loose skills if not exposed frequently
• I: Prospective randomized Simulation intervention
• C: Success with and without simulation
• O: Improve confidence & performance of a HCPs and
eventually patient outcome
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

4. Approach / Design
Randomized, controlled study using a 3-tier strategy
Pre-Intervention Measurement
3-Tier Approach
Confidence
Post-Intervention
Skills Group 1: every 3 mo
Performance/compet
ency Group 2: every 6 mo Confidence
Patient Outcomes Group 3: every 12 Skills
mo Performance/compet
ency
Patient Outcomes
The groups would consist of 15 residents and the frequency of retraining/testing is
identified according to the group they are randomly assigned.
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

5. 3 Questions to improve study
1. How to proceed?
2. Single or multi center
3. Trainee and/or faculty
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

6. Contact Information
Name: Renuka Mehta
Institution: Georgia Health sciences University
E-mail: Rmehta@georgiahealth.edu
Website / QR Code
International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education