Impact of Virtual Simulation vs. Video Refresher Training on NRP Simulation Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective To assess the impact of NRP virtual simulations (eSim™), video or no refresher training, on simulation performance, six months after a provider course; and to evaluate eSim™ acceptability. Study Design: In this multi-site randomized controlled trial, NRP providers from four U.S. institutions were randomized to receive refreshers every two months with NRP eSim™, NRP resuscitation video, or no refresher (control). Simulation performance was assessed immediately after an NRP course and six months later. Result 248 participants completed the baseline simulation and 148 completed the six-month follow-up simulation. The majority (71%) of subjects had a decline in resuscitation skills at 6 months. There were no differences in performance between the study groups, but participants who reported using either the video or eSim™ had less decline in performance at the 6-month follow-up (p < 0.05). Conclusion NRP refreshers with either eSim™ or NRP video may mitigate the decline in resuscitation skills after training.