Safety in the Obstetric Patient: Simulation Training for Anesthesiologists in the Obstetrics Field

Abstract

The principal goal of health systems is to provide safe and quality healthcare for the patient. Deficiencies in the environment in which obstetric care is provided, inadequate teamwork and communication, and poor individual performance during emergencies have been identified as preventable causes of harm to obstetric patients. There is growing evidence about training in Emergency Obstetric Care (EmOC) that reduces the risk of maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity. The Institute of Medicine identifies team-based training and simulation as methods to improve patients’ safety, especially in the obstetrics field, these may add value to it. Recent research works review the effectiveness of training in EmOC and the use of simulation in improved health outcomes. It remains unclear whether this translates into improved patient outcomes.