Post-simulation knowledge, confidence, and satisfaction in simulation-naïve anaesthesia postgraduates: A questionnaire-based survey and quality improvement initiative

Background: Simulation is increasingly recommended to impart technical and non-technical skills to anaesthesia postgraduates. There is a need for feedback and assessing the perception of post-session knowledge, confidence, and satisfaction in postgraduates novice to simulation.Materials and Methods: Thirty-seven anaesthesia postgraduates without prior exposure to simulation were divided into 7 teams and exposed to critical scenarios using high fidelity simulation, followed by a structured debriefing. A Google form was circulated to assess their perception of post-session knowledge, confidence, and satisfaction with the session using a 5-point Likert scale (1-strongly agree, 5-strongly disagree). A score of less than 3 (strongly agree and agree) was considered positive regarding that question. Feedback on quality improvement strategies of such sessions was also collected.Result: Thirty-seven responses were obtained. Majority of the students perceived simulation session to be useful in terms of knowledge and confidence in handling the scenarios and were satisfied with sessions. Majority felt simulation session improved their understanding [86.4% (32/37)], enhanced recognition of critical aspects [83.7% (31/37)], increased confidence [86.5% (32/37)], and improved teamwork/leadership [86.4% (32/37)]. The simulation session was perceived as beneficial in refining clinical approach in management of critical operating room emergencies [86.5% (32/37)]. Debriefing was deemed essential to the learning process by 96.3% (36/37) with 75.7% (28/37) preferring post-scenario debriefing over real-time (stop-and-go) debriefing. Furthermore, 75.6% (28/37) of participants suggested that repeating the scenario after the initial debriefing followed by a subsequent debriefing would further enhance learning outcomes.Conclusion: High fidelity simulation sessions may be a useful learning tool in boosting knowledge, confidence, and overall satisfaction among simulation-naïve anaesthesia postgraduates. Moreover, incorporating post-simulation scenario repetition followed by a second debriefing or re-debriefing may further consolidate and reinforce learning outcomes.