Role swapping between nurses and physicians in simulated endoscopy training enhances collaboration and teamwork: a prospective observational pilot study.

Background and aims: Gastrointestinal endoscopy is a collaborative process requiring technical and nontechnical skills from both physicians and nurses. Role swapping during simulated procedures has the potential to enhance skill development and team dynamics. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of role swapping on technical and nontechnical skills, as well as on team collaboration and satisfaction, among endoscopists and nurses during simulated endoscopic procedures.

Methods: A pilot study was conducted with 22 participants (10 endoscopists and 12 nurses). Participants completed pre- and postsimulation assessments using validated self-rating scales: Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS), Scrub Practitioners' List of Intraoperative Non-Technical Skills (SPLINTS), and customised technical skills questionnaires. Role swapping training sessions included onsite classes, randomised role-swapping simulations, and a 2-week postsimulation assessment. Wilcoxon nonparametric tests assessed differences between pre- and postsimulation scores.

Results: Role swapping significantly improved NOTSS and SPLINTS scores across key domains: communication, decision-making, situational awareness, and teamwork (P < 0.05). Endoscopists reported significant confidence gains in instrument preparation, medication dilution, and patient discharge (P < 0.05). Nurses demonstrated improvement in motor skills, mucosal inspection, and loop reduction handling during colonoscopy (P < 0.05). Both groups expressed high satisfaction with role swapping training.

Conclusion: Role swapping in simulated settings significantly enhances technical and nontechnical skills, fostering teamwork and mutual respect between physicians and nurses. This innovative approach could improve clinical practice and patient safety in real-world settings.