Virtual Reality CPR Training Improves Knowledge Acquisition of Critical Tasks

Abstract

Objectives: Team-focused cardiopulmonary resuscitation (TFCPR) is a choreographed approach to CPR in which responders know and practice their role in resuscitation, with prioritization on minimally-interrupted chest compressions and early appropriate defibrillation. To determine the feasibility of virtual reality (VR) for large scale educational deployment at a regional medical campus (RMC), we developed a VR training module and examined its effect on resuscitation knowledge acquisition among clinicians of various learner levels. Methods: Three separate cohorts were included in the investigation: third year medical students at our RMC, emergency medicine (EM) residents, and board-certified EM attending physicians. Participants were administered an iPad-based, de-identified pre-test, which assessed knowledge of 12 critical resuscitative tasks. All learners received a two-minute orientation to the VR headset fit and operation. Learners then completed training on the VR platform using two cardiac arrest clinical scenarios: an arrest with an initial shockable rhythm and another with a non-shockable initial rhythm. After completion of VR training, participants completed a post-test, again assessing knowledge of the 12 critical action resuscitative tasks, as well as a questionnaire determining metrics related to participants’ overall experience with VR training. Results: All participants demonstrated statistically significant increases in post-test scores after VR training with the combined median improvement of 12.5% (CI 12.5–17.0; p <0.0001). Medical students demonstrated the greatest median pre-post score improvement (17%; CI 12.5–25.0; p <0.0001]. Study participants reported the VR training platform to be enjoyable, realistic, immersive, and a good way to learn, with good visual-sensory tolerance and a satisfying training method. Conclusions: At our RMC and single hospital, pre-and post-test analysis, knowledge acquisition of critical resuscitation skills improved after VR TFCPR training for all learners. Additionally, participants demonstrated a high level of satisfaction with VR as a training methodology. VR is a feasible knowledge acquisition adjunct or alternative to traditional cardiac arrest resuscitation training.

Keywords

• VR
• virtual reality
• innovative education
• ume
• gme
• emergency medicine