Effectiveness of Simulation Based Learning in Medicolegal Training of Medical Officers

Simulation Based Learning in Medicolegal Training

Abstract

Objective: The present study is aimed to compare the effectiveness of simulation-based learning with didactic lecturing in medico-legal training of medical officers. 

Methodology: A quasi experimental study design (pre-test, post-test) was implemented. It included 44 medical officers who were deputed at Forensic Medicine Department of Quaid-e-Azam Medical College, Bahawalpur for medicolegal training from 15^th May 2024 to 30^th May 2024. The sample was collected using a convenient sampling technique. All the medical officers were divided into two groups; one group (Group-A) underwent didactic lecturing whereas the other underwent simulation-based learning (Group-B). Likert scale was used to assess the knowledge and skills of both groups. Pre- and post-test scores evaluated the learning outcomes. The self-confidence of medical officers was measured through a self-assessment questionnaire.

Results: A total of 44 medical officers were included in the study, with 22 in each group. The pre-test score of Group A and B was 6.4±0.4 and 5.6±0.5 respectively, whereas the post-test score was 7.3±0.3 and 9.0±0.2, respectively. A significant improvement was seen in post-test scores than pre-test scores (p<0.001). Moreover, the simulation-based learning group had a higher post-test score than the didactic lecturing group. Also, a higher confidence level was observed in medical officers undergoing simulation-based learning in managing different scenarios.

Conclusion: The present study found that medical officers gained valuable experience from simulation-based learning in confronting ethical dilemmas and complex legal cases encountered in their clinical practice by negotiating with real-time scenarios.