Blended Teaching Methodology of E-learning and Simulation Training in Obstetrics and Gynecology for Undergraduate Medical and Nursing Trainees

Abstract

Context The concept of simulation-based teaching has become a standard practice for health education in the present era. However, there is a paucity of literature on integrating simulation-based teachingin the conventional training of undergraduate medical and nursing students. Aim To explore the effectiveness and benefits of e-learning along with low-fidelity simulation in obstetrics and gynecology among undergraduate medical and nursing students at a tertiary care centerin India. Methodology It was a prospective study conducted on 53 final-year undergraduate medical students and 61 final-year undergraduate nursing students. All students underwent a knowledge-based pre-test followed by exposure to an e-learning module on four selected obstetrics and gynecology skills, namely, conducting normal delivery, episiotomy suturing, pelvic examination, and insertion of intrauterine device. Students practiced these four skills on low-fidelity simulators. After this, they underwent a post-test assessment and gave feedback. A focused group discussion was conducted to explore their experiences. Results There was a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test knowledge scores of all the students (p =< 0.001). Students found this teaching strategy useful and reported an increase in self-assessed confidence. Focused group discussion revealed various themes like improved satisfaction and ability to practice repeatedly without fear of harming patients. Conclusions Based on the results, this teaching methodology should be integrated as an adjunct method of teaching in the undergraduate curriculum from the first year itself, which will motivate students to participate in clinical care and will result in quality improvement of health care.