Employing Virtual Reality for Medical Simulation Training

Introduction and Aims: Simulation training is an integral part of healthcare training. Traditional in-person simulation is highly effective for several applications. However, it has specific requirements - such as specialized equipment, dedicated space, and specially trained technicians - that may not be logistically or financially feasible for many training programs to maintain regularly. Additionally, in-person training became increasingly difficult to facilitate in the face of the recent global pandemic and associated structural changes in workplaces and training programs. Virtual reality (VR) simulation provides an avenue for safe, customizable, distributed medical decision-making training accessible across skill levels and institutional capabilities. While many skills required to moderate and practice in VR do not translate directly from previous simulation experience, such abilities can be attained with relatively little setup. In this workshop, we will illustrate the complementary value of VR training for medical decision-making within current medical simulation paradigms, demonstrate the ease of use of one VR medical simulation platform, practice moderator skills that can be implemented to enhance participant learning, and learn together the natural team-building skills developed through VR training.

Session Description: The session will begin with an introduction to medical simulation use cases, detailing several VR training platforms and their utility. For medical decision-making KSAs, there will be a specific description of the demonstration platform and its case-based learning and creation approach. Next, a brief demonstration will be conducted to showcase general VR functionality and flow of a virtual medical scenario. Participants will then be divided into groups and invited to participate as learners in a simulation scenario specific to their medical specialty. Following a short break, there will be an overview of moderator best practices in VR, and participants will then have the opportunity to moderate a scenario with their peers. The session will conclude with debriefing, feedback, and questions.

Expected Impact: By the end of this workshop, attendees will have a general understanding of the capabilities virtual reality simulation provides, its current limitations, and ways training can be enhanced through educator input.