Communication delay increases procedure time and instructor task load during simulated suturing by novices

npj Microgravity 2026 Open access

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Authors: Albert Yeam, Khushi Bhatt, K. M. Hanna, Tovy Haber Kamine, Ariana Marie Nelson
DOI: 10.1038/s41526-026-00610-3
Cited by: 0
References: 6

Abstract

Communication delay during remote instruction of simple interrupted suturing was evaluated by randomizing participants to near real-time or 4-second delayed communication conditions. The delay group required more time to complete five sutures, with diminishing effect by the fifth suture. Instructor-reported cognitive workload was higher under delayed conditions, but suturing quality did not differ between groups. These findings suggest remote guidance is operationally feasible for non-medically trained individuals performing uncomplicated interventions.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Surgical Simulation and Training Hospital Admissions and Outcomes Patient Safety and Medication Errors

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Microgravity
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
12
Issue
1
Publication date
13 June 2026
Language
EN