Simulation training in emergency medicine (STEM): An integral component of residency curriculum

Abstract

In the field of emergency medicine (EM), health professionals should be able to function effectively in the dynamic, uncertain, time-pressured, and high-stakes environment of the emergency department. Simulation training in emergency medicine (STEM) can be a tool to create an environmental milieu which allows developing health professionals' knowledge, skills and attitudes. It amplifies realistic experience in a safe and controlled environment and in an interactive fashion, providing feedback and hence, effective and experiential learning. It also provides a basis for teaching and assessment by simulating encounters on complex issues, multidisciplinary issues, team dynamics, communication skills and professionalism and dealing with challenging patients and family members. This article highlights the current evidence on the usefulness of simulation in training residents in EM and its need to be integrated into the basic framework of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education - International (ACGME-I) accredited emergency medicine residency curriculum and assessment in Singapore. This will eventually lead to transfer of skills into real world settings and have an impact on patient safety, and hence improve patient outcomes.