Longitudinal assessment of obstetrics and gynecology resident perceptions and comfort following cerclage placement simulation

Abstract

Background

Utilization of simulation training in medical education has increased over time, particularly for less common scenarios and procedures. Simulation allows trainees to practice in a low-stress environment and eliminates patient risk. Cerclage placement has become less frequent, which limits obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) exposure to cerclage placement during training. This exposes an area of training requiring simulation in OB/GYN resident education.

Objective

To evaluate resident reception to cerclage simulation, their self-reported comfort with and ability to troubleshoot difficult cerclage placement immediately and 12 months following didactic education and simulation.

Methods

In 2019, 18/20 (90%) OB/GYN residents in our university program underwent didactic teaching and simulation in cerclage placement using a pelvic model with removable cervix. Residents completed a survey immediately and 12 months following simulation. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze resident self-report of comfort with cerclage placement and skill techniques for navigating difficult placement before and after simulation training. Descriptive statistics were analyzed as means and standard deviations.

Results

Eighteen of twenty (90%) residents participated in the education session in cerclage placement. All 18 (100%) completed a postsimulation survey and 17/18 (94%) completed a survey 12 months later. All reported improved comfort with cerclage placement and statistically significant improvement in knowledge on techniques for troubleshooting difficult placement after simulation. All residents reported that the simulation enhanced their learning and recommended the simulation for future educational opportunities.

Conclusions

Cerclage simulation was well-received by OB/GYN residents in learning and practicing cerclage placement. Residents demonstrated improved comfort with placement following simulation.

Keywords:

• Cerclage
• simulation
• training
• resident
• attitude
• skills

Acknowledgments

The authors thank Donna Eastham for helping in editing and submitting the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

Dr. Whittington is an active-duty member of the Armed Forces. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. This work was prepared as part of his official duties. Title 17 U.S.C. 105 provides that “Copyright protection under this title is not available for any work of the United States Government.” Title 17 U.S.C. 101 defines a United States Government work as a work prepared by a military service member or employee of the United States Government as part of that person’s official duties. All authors report no conflict or declaration of interest related to this manuscript.