Incorporating a virtual simulation exercise into the preclerkship undergraduate curriculum

Intro/Background: As part of our Foundations 3 block (MS I year), we developed and incorporated a virtual simulation exercise. This session replaced an in person simulation exercise focusing on community acquired pneumonia as our institution moved to a virtual learning environment in the fall of 2020 due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. Using the SIMULATIONiQ™ platform, students were able to videoconference into our simulation center from their home. The exercise took place in December 2020 Purpose/Objective: We developed this exercise to provide an interactive, virtual simulation that would allow 1st year medical students to participate in from the convenience of their homes. The objective of this exercise is for the students to enhance their ability to apply basic science knowledge to clinical medicine and perform a focused evaluation of their virtual patient (HPdata gathering (HPassessment (differential diagnosis) and diagnostic work up, Group C;data interpretation, management and disposition. A standardized patient portrayed an ED patient with complaints of fever, cough and SOB. A faculty member was present to provide PE findings and facilitate the progression of the exercise. A checklist was used to assist with debriefing and providing feedback. Outcomes (if available): Most students (153/160, 96%) felt the exercise met the learning objectives and was a valuable experience (89%). The group format kept students engaged throughout the exercise (63%), was clinically relevant (98%). All 12 groups correctly stated that the most likely diagnosis was pneumonia;all groups ordered a chest radiograph. Most (88%) noted that feedback on their group's performance was valuable. The majority of students, 82% did not report any technical problems during the virtual simulation. Summary: A virtual simulation exercise can serve as a valuable educational experience and is technically feasible if resources are available. Using the SIMULATIONiQ™ platform, the vast majority of students were able to videoconference into our sim center with little difficulty. From the convenience of their home, students were able to interact with the standardized patient, order and interpret diagnostic tests such as a chest radiograph and interact with the faculty facilitator. Overall the exercise was viewed very positively.