JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

High-quality neonatal resuscitation depends on timely execution of technical and non-technical skills. Simulation-based training improves neonatal resuscitation performance but is resource-intensive and difficult to deliver at sufficient frequency. Immersive virtual reality simulation may provide a scalable supplement to traditional mannequin-based training; however, evidence from European neonatal training settings is limited.

Objective:

To evaluate whether immersive virtual reality-based simulation training used as a supplement to traditional mannequin-based simulation training, improves neonatal resuscitation performance among doctors and nurses in Denmark.

Methods:

NEONATAL is a multicentre, individually randomized, two-arm controlled superiority trial with a parallel-group pretest–posttest design (trial registration number ISRCTN43822066). Resident doctors and neonatal nurses from four hospitals in eastern Denmark will be randomized to either traditional mannequin-based neonatal resuscitation training alone or traditional mannequin-based simulation training supplemented with immersive virtual reality simulation training. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and endline at 6–8 weeks using standardized neonatal simulation scenarios, validated assessment tools and questionnaires.

Results:

This study will provide data on the effectiveness, feasibility and usability of immersive virtual reality simulation training as a supplement to traditional mannequin-based neonatal resuscitation training in routine clinical education.

Conclusions:

The NEONATAL study addresses an important gap in neonatal resuscitation education by evaluating immersive virtual reality simulation training as a supplement to traditional mannequin-based training. Clinical Trial: ISRCTN43822066