88 Enhancing immersive simulation in sleep science

Introduction Healthcare Science (HCS) is an evolving profession, though simulation has historically been underutilised within this workforce. Sleep Science, a patient-facing HCS discipline, involves overnight clinical decision-making often without physical medical presence. Building on our earlier pilot, we developed a new simulation iteration aimed at improving the confidence of junior staff, enabling them to deliver safe, autonomous, patient-centred care. Previous sessions were well received, demonstrating growing value in paediatric sleep science simulation.Methods Patient simulators (Laerdal, Gaumard) were used to emulate physiological sleep responses. Sleep studies were recorded using Natus NDx sleep systems and REMLogic software, connected to the simulator and configured to replicate physiological parameters, such as heart rate, respiratory effort, and airflow. This created sleep stages and respiratory events according to the latest American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) guidelines. Faculty created realistic scenarios with defined learning objectives from the sleep lab, providing a safe environment for Physiologists to respond to physiological changes. Participants received a patient history in a pre-brief before entering the simulation room, followed by a structured debrief for reflection and consolidation of learning.Results Pre- and post-evaluation showed a marked improvement in communication confidence, rising from 50% to 100%. Participants valued the authentic environment, which supported familiar clinical behaviours. Sleep Physiologists carry out complex, patient-focused tasks. High-fidelity simulation proved effective but required thorough preparation. Collaboration, teamwork, and testing time were essential to success, measured through learner outcomes. While not all impacts were quantitative, a psychologically safe learning space enabled better clinical practice and improved patient care.Conclusion We identified further innovation opportunities with simulation and sleep physiology, including collaboration with the wider multidisciplinary team and expanding access to learners external to our organisation.