Long-term impact of a preclinical simulation-based course on the medical student experience

OBJECTIVE: Today's medical students grew up in a technology loaded environment, and are thought to be more receptive to technologically advanced training. We sought to determine the effect of a high fidelity simulation-based preclinical endovascular skills course on medical student performance and long-term career impact. METHODS: 53 preclinical medical students took an 8-week elective course from 2007-2010. Students completed a baseline survey and performed a stent procedure on an endovascular simulator. The course consisted of teaching vascular diseases and weekly simulator sessions, and concluded with a graded procedure and post survey. Follow-up surveys were administered 1-3 years after course completion to determine career paths. RESULTS: Performance on the simulator improved in all students for patient safety metrics, technical skills, and overall competency (p<.001). In follow-up surveys, the key factors impacting residency choices were faculty mentorship (78%), this elective course (60%). Students didn't consider patient population or income potential as important factors; most relevant in cultivating career choice were clinical rotations (64%) and technology (60%). A student explained, “The course helped me apply theoretical knowledge to patients' demographics and treatments. Through simulation, I was exposed to a patient's condition from start to finish, practiced communication, and learned OR flow which I would not have experienced just by shadowing.” CONCLUSIONS: Integrating technology into medical student education maximizes learning experiences. Students chose surgery due to mentorship, technology, clerkship, and electives. This demonstrates a strong need to develop innovative simulation-based curricula for preclinical students to practice procedures in a safe and educational environment.