Clinical breast exam training using tactually accurate computer simulation among healthcare providers in ghana

Background

The incidence and prevalence of breast cancer continue to grow each year in sub-Saharan Africa. With limited access to diagnostic testing in this resource-limited area, clinical breast exams are a priority. Diversity in clinical breast exam skills contributes to misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis of breast cancer. Computer-based simulation improves clinical breast exam skills and has the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of tactually accurate computer simulation on participants’ clinical breast exam competence, confidence, and intent to perform clinical breast exams in their practice.

Methods

This was a retrospective study design analyzing MammaCare® training data and web-based survey data from 34 healthcare providers, including midwives, nurses, physician assistants, and medical officers, employed at five clinics in Ghana.

Results

Participants demonstrated clinical breast exam skill competence. With each successive training module, the participants increased palpation coverage of breast tissue and decreased the number of false positive lumps identified as well as accurately identified true positive lumps. Participants reported increased confidence and intent to perform clinical breast exams and inquire about risk factors and symptoms patients may be experiencing.

Conclusions

Clinical breast exam skills training using tactually accurate computer simulation was effective and appropriate for practicing healthcare providers. The training may promote enhanced screening practices and early detection of breast cancer.