Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medical graduates should be capable of providing good quality care for older adults who present with multi-morbidity, frailty and challenging long-term conditions, as recommended by the GMC’s “Outcomes for Graduates” guidance. Simulation-based education (SBE) is a recognised modality for replicating experiences to enhance and consolidate learning in a safe environment. We have developed an undergraduate geriatric medicine themed SBE experience, which aims to consolidate learning for core geriatric medicine concepts. METHODS Three geriatric medicine simulation scenarios have been written for 4th year medical students, which follow a simulated patient’s clinical journey within an acute hospital setting covering an inpatient fall, challenging communication and assessment of delirium. The intended learning outcomes align to the geriatric medicine themes in the University of Glasgow undergraduate curriculum, in addition to addressing salient skills including A to E assessment, handover and other non-technical skills. A questionnaire using Likert scales and free text boxes was sent to candidates and faculty before and after the sessions to gather feedback. Faculty members consisted of consultants, registrars, nurses and clinical fellows, with backgrounds in both general and geriatric medicine. RESULTS Following the sessions, 100% of students and faculty “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that SBE is useful for geriatric medicine themes. Following the sessions, 80% of students felt “fairly confident” in their knowledge of falls and delirium, with 60% feeling the same regarding breaking bad news. Qualitative student feedback recognised it as “relevant”, “helpful” and they enjoyed the “realistic pace” of the scenarios. Faculty acknowledged that this SBE “will help prepare students for foundation years”. CONCLUSIONS Our innovative geriatric medicine themed SBE has been positively received by both students and faculty. Early results show students have subsequently improved confidence around core geriatric medicine topics. We intend to continue expanding our audience and strengthening undergraduate learning for geriatric medicine.