JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

EmergenCSimTM, is a novel researcher-developed serious game (SG) with an embedded scoring and feedback tool that reproduces an obstetric operating room environment. The learner must perform general anesthesia (GA) for emergent cesarean delivery (CD) for umbilical cord prolapse. Debriefing (facilitator-guided reflection) is integral to experiential learning but the optimal debriefing methods for SGs are unknown.

Objective:

We hypothesized that an in-person debriefing in addition to the SG-embedded electronic feedback will provide superior learning than electronic feedback alone.

Methods:

Novice 1st year anesthesiology residents (CA-1) (n=51) (i) watched a recorded lecture on GA for emergent CD, (ii) took a 26-item multiple-choice question (MCQ) pre-test, and (iii) played EmergenCSimTM (maximum score 196.5). They were randomized to either the control group which experienced the electronic feedback alone (Group EF, n=26) or the intervention group, which experienced the SG-embedded electronic feedback and an in-person debriefing (Group IPD+EF, n=25). All subjects played the SG a 2nd time, with instructions to try to increase their score, then they took a 26-item MCQ post-test. Pre-and post-tests (maximum score of 26 points each), were validated parallel forms.

Results:

For Groups EF and IPD+EF respectively, mean pre-test scores were18.6 (SD 2.5) and 19.4 (SD 2.3), and mean post-test scores were 22.6 (SD 2.2) and 22.1 (SD 1.6); F=1.8, p=0.185. SG scores for Groups EF and IPD+EF respectively were - mean 1st play SG scores of 135 (SE 4.4) and 141 (SE 4.5), and mean 2nd play SG scores were 163.1 (SE 2.9) and 173.3 (SE 2.9); F= 137.7, p < 0.001.

Conclusions:

Adding an in-person debriefing experience led to greater improvement in SG scores, emphasizing the learning benefits of this practice. Improved SG performance in both groups suggests that SGs have a role as independent, less resource-intensive educational tools. Clinical Trial: None