Advances in diagnostic training for retinopathy of prematurity with the introduction of the Eyesi Indirect Ophthalmoscope ROP Simulator: an exploratory study to assess its construct and face validity.

Abstract

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is one of the leading causes for severe visual impairment in premature infants. A correct classification of ROP stages is essential for appropriate disease management. Haag-Streit Simulation launched the Eyesi Indirect Ophthalmoscope ROP Simulator for diagnostic training. The purpose of this study was to assess its construct and face validity.

Methods: The performance of 15 medical students was compared with that of 7 optometrists, 9 residents in ophthalmology, and 7 ROP specialists. Each subject performed one abstract task, followed by clinical tasks presented in random order. After the session, a satisfaction questionnaire was completed. The Kruskal-Wallis test, Conover-Iman test, and Bonferroni-Holm adjustment were conducted to assess the impact of experience on the simulator results.

Results: Significant differences in total scores were observed between the four educational levels for both the abstract and clinical tasks. In the subscores, significant differences were demonstrated for examination time, light exposure, eye touching, odometer measurements, correct selection of findings, and ROP follow-up questions. In the face validity questionnaire (scale, 1-7), all participants reported increased knowledge (6.39 ± 0.92), improved understanding of ROP stage classification (5.45 ± 1.52), and recommended the course to others (6.90 ± 0.37).

Conclusions: The Eyesi Indirect ROP demonstrated significant construct and face validity in this study cohort, suggesting that it may be a valuable adjunct to traditional training methods for ROP screening for a range of healthcare professionals.