Medical Simulation Anywhere and Anytime: Simulation in a Backpack.

Audience: Simulation in a Backpack is designed to offer immersive simulation experiences to medical professionals, including emergency medicine and pediatrics residents, medical students, pharmacists, and pharmacy students. It particularly targets those in environments where traditional simulation equipment is not readily accessible.

Introduction: Simulation education plays a crucial role in emergency medicine training, offering hands-on experiences in managing critical resuscitations. Simulation in a Backpack was developed to provide portable and quickly set-up simulation sessions, offering a solution for environments lacking simulation laboratories.

Educational objectives: By the end of this simulation experience learners will be able to:Recognize and manage emergencies through immersive simulation experiences with an inflatable manikin and pre-programmed free software system.Demonstrate knowledge and skills to resuscitate patients with medical emergencies.Enhance confidence and competence in responding to medical emergencies using portable, low-tech resources.Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and effective communication during scenarios.

Educational methods: Simulation in a Backpack utilizes an inflatable manikin and free simulation software, Med Sim Studio, with easy portability and speedy setup, facilitating hands-on learning in realistic scenarios and optional electronic modulators to augment fidelity. The curriculum employs experiential learning theory, engaging learners in reflective experiences and practical application.

Research methods: The efficacy of Simulation a Backpack was evaluated through learner (resident physicians, medical students, pharmacists) feedback. The Net Promoter Score (NPS) and focused qualitative analysis of written feedback were used to assess satisfaction and learning experiences.

Results: Out of 191 learners, Simulation in a Backpack received a commendable NPS of +81.33, indicating high satisfaction. Focused qualitative analysis showed positive feedback, with learners valuing the educational experience despite the low-fidelity of the manikin.

Discussion: Simulation in a Backpack effectively provided meaningful educational experiences, as evidenced by high NPS and positive written feedback. Modifications were made based on practical experience and learner feedback, emphasizing efficient and immersive experiences and managing expectations regarding fidelity.This innovation addresses the growing need for portable simulation solutions, offering a cost-effective and flexible approach to simulation in medical training.

Topics: Portable simulation, innovative simulation, interdisciplinary collaboration.