Abstract

Simulation based training (SBT) is increasingly being incorporated into the teaching programme of undergraduate students across the different medical specialities. A metanalysis of the literature has shown simulation based training (SBT) to be superior to other traditional methods of teaching at developing confidence, skill and teamwork skills. 1 However a search of the literature reveals that neurology, as a speciality has lagged behind in its utilisation of SBT as a tool to improve students' ability to manage patients presenting with neurological conditions.

We have used model-based simulation training on fourth year medical students to simulate three clinical scenarios; status epilepticus, subarachnoid haemorrhage and bacterial meningitis. Of the 22 students surveyed, 17 (77%) strongly agreed that patient simulators are a useful addition to learning with real patients and 18 (82%) stated that SBT enhanced their learning experience during their neurology placement.

By enacting clinical situations in real time, SBT allows students to put into practice their medical knowledge as well non-technical skills under safe and controlled conditions. This resulted in students feeling more confident at managing patients with neurological emergencies. SBT is a valuable training tool in addition to learning with real patients.