Interdisciplinary in situ simulation in non-operating room anesthesia.

Abstract

Purpose of review: While the demand for non-operating room anesthesia (NORA) care expands, anesthetic care in NORA settings continues to be associated with unique challenges and hazards. Simulation has been recommended as an effective patient safety tool promoting interprofessional communication and crisis response in this setting. The aim of this review is to examine the current literature on simulation in NORA, focusing specifically on interprofessional in situ simulation (ISS).

Recent findings: ISS is best practiced in an interprofessional setting and involves simulation of clinical scenarios in the environment where clinical care is delivered. Several recent studies across NORA settings have investigated the impact of interprofessional ISS on team dynamics. These studies have concluded that the implementation of ISS improves patient safety and is associated with improvement in interprofessional communication, understanding of team members' roles, and coordination during crisis management. Most studies to date have focused on qualitative analysis of simulation participant experiences.

Summary: Interprofessional ISS represents a promising strategy to address the unique challenges and hazards faced in NORA settings. Future research on this topic is needed, with a focus on the sustainability and scalability of interprofessional ISS programs and their impact on long-term provider learning and patient outcomes.