Simulated Reality for Safer Clinical Outcomes

Learning to become a skilled practitioner indeed takes practice.  Emory’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics offers its Residents and Fellows the opportunity to focus on skills such as team dynamics and communication skills, as well as basic gynecological and obstetrical procedures and surgical skills. Residents gather together monthly at one of two simulation centers to train in skills such as breech vaginal delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy and more.   Residents receive simulation training once a month. All residents and surgical fellows are also required to be FLS certified which has been shown to improve operative laparoscopic abilities.  

With the increase in simulation team training over the recent years, our residents are also benefitting from learning and practicing alongside dedicated faculty and multi-disciplinary teams (including obstetricians, gynecologists, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, nursing staff and other members of the perinatal or surgical team). This level of focused mentorship gives residents the opportunity to both increase their knowledge and confidence but allows faculty the ability to mentor residents in an ongoing effort. By promoting best practices in closed-loop communication, information sharing, assertiveness, adaptability, and leadership skills, simulation training raises the skill-level of participating residents while providing opportunities for specific simulated experiences.

Pictured: Dr. Lauren Espinosa (resident) works with Dr. Marko Klisovic (faculty) during a simulation training session.

According to E. Britton Chahine, MD, Director of Gynecology and Obstetrics Simulation, the mission of the Emory GYNOB simulation training curriculum is to, “Combine hands on learning with evidence-based medicine for better, safer clinical outcomes.” 

This emphasis on better clinical outcomes, and increased patient safety means a better experience for patients. Simulation training takes place primarily within the Emory Center for Experiential Learning (ExCEL) at Emory University School of Medicine. With a theatre style set-up, faculty can both monitor and guide residents as they navigate routine and emergency scenarios without risk of injury to actual patients. 

Learn more about Emory’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics residency program.