The value of clinical simulation-based training

Abstract

Simulators were first used in aviation for flight training of pilots and for inter-staff communication. Regular training in the simulation centre is obligatory for all aircraft staff, whatever their rank or position. Simulation-based training has been introduced in nuclear power, space flight and petrochemical industries, particularly in the settings where there is a high probability of large-scale catastrophic events. The major advantages of learning skills on a simulator are: each procedure can be interrupted, improved and repeated until the required proficiency has been achieved, and no real harm is done when an eventual mistake –inadmissible in real clinical setting – is made on a mannequin. This learning modality is therefore less stressful for both the trainee and the teacher, and helps increase the trainee’s self-confidence.