Virtual simulations for neonatal education

This was a collaboration with my amazing colleague Rachel Umoren, Thanks once again to Rachel for inviting me to be part of this work.

The task was to describe what a Virtual simulation lab should look like, what equipment might be needed and what the evidence is behind Virtual simulation for neonatal education.

Virtual simulation (VS) education involves the use of virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality and screen- based platforms, collectively referred to as extended reality, to provide education and assessment. This novel simulation modality supports experiential learning and increases access to practice opportunities, supplementing manikin-based simulation. VS has been used successfully for neonatal resuscitation training in high and low resource settings. Virtual simulators can be used to objectively assess learner performance in neonatal resusci- tation knowledge and skills. When implementing VS for neonatal resuscitation training, key considerations include matching learning objectives with suitable technology, pre-session preparation, supporting learners, and debriefing. Additional research is needed to evaluate the impact of VS applications on clinical practice and patient outcomes.

Rachel A Umoren, Georg M Schmölzer, Virtual simulations for neonatal education

Semin Perinatol . 2023 Sep 24;151826. doi: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151826.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37770364/