Assessing the Efficacy of Medium- and High-Reality Simulators in Normal Labor Management: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction

In recent years, the use of simulation has become integral to midwifery education. This study systematically examined the effectiveness of high- and medium-reality simulators in the management of normal labor, focusing on their impact on normal delivery skills, student satisfaction, and self-confidence in learning. The evaluation encompassed both laboratory and hospital settings, providing a comprehensive assessment of the simulators' efficacy in enhancing key aspects of midwifery education.

Material and method

In this experimental randomized controlled study, the sample group comprised 102 students enrolled in the midwifery department of a university in Türkiye. These students were randomly assigned to three groups utilizing Research Randomizer (https://www.randomizer.org). The students consisted of a control group (d1 = slide and video presentation, 30 people) and two experimental groups (d2 = medium-reality simulator, 32 people; d3 = high-reality simulator, 33 people). Data were collected by a single observer using various tools, including the Introductory Information Form, the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale, and the Normal Birth Evaluation Form. Pre- and post-test applications were conducted in both laboratory and hospital settings. This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.org with the registration number NCT05999409.

Findings

Simulation-based learning did not lead to a significant difference between the groups in terms of students' satisfaction and self-confidence in learning (p > .05). However, it was observed that the utilization of both medium- and high-reality simulations significantly impacted students' normal delivery skills, leading to a statistically significant difference between the groups (p < .05).

Conclusion

Medium- and high-reality simulation training proved effective in enhancing the normal delivery skills of midwifery students, with a notable positive impact. However, this training did not have a significant influence on student satisfaction and confidence. The findings suggest that incorporating medium- and high-reality simulation training is crucial for midwifery students to be able to improve their skills in hospital practice.