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Feasibility of an enhanced low-fidelity ear simulator for otomicroscopy training

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 January 2024

Megan Allman Open the ORCID record for Megan Allman [Opens in a new window]  and
David Owens
Megan Allman*
Affiliation:
ENT Department, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, Wales, UK
David Owens
Affiliation:
ENT Department, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, Wales, UK
*
Corresponding author: Megan Allman; Email: meganallman@doctors.org.uk
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Abstract

Objective

Otoscopic skills are essential for ENT doctors. Early-stage doctors develop skills whilst treating patients, with minimal teaching, potentially increasing risk to patients. Simulation allows skill development without patient risk; however, simulation often requires subjective expert review of technique. This study compared enhanced low-fidelity simulation with performance feedback against standard simulation using a basic otoscopy skills simulator.

Methods

Two low-fidelity ear simulators were created: a basic model without feedback and an enhanced model which alarms when the aural instrument tip touches the canal wall. Participants were evaluated in a randomised crossover pilot study, using both models to assess whether objective feedback reduced tip touches.

Results

The enhanced simulator reduced tip touches more than the control model, suggesting better and more sustained skill uptake. Participants reported that the enhanced model improved learning.

Conclusion

Enhanced low-fidelity models provide a low-cost opportunity to improve otoscopy skills without patient risk or the need for subjective expert feedback.

Keywords

Medical educationpostgraduate educationundergraduate medical educationteachingotology
Type
Short Communications
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , First View , pp. 1 - 3
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of J.L.O. (1984) LIMITED

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Footnotes

Megan Allman takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper

Presented at ENT Wales Annual Meeting, 21 October 2022, Saundersfoot, Wales, UK.

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