Multidisciplinary Team Training Simulation in Interventional Radiology

Abstract

Efficient teamwork and communication is critical for the delivery of safe and high quality patient care. Studies have shown that medical errors can occur as a result of poor communication. Simulation scenarios can help improve communication and teamwork, therefore decreasing errors and improving team morale. Simulation is best employed through a multidisciplinary approach, including all members of the team involved in the patient's care. Team simulation can be difficult to plan and execute, therefore we will review the steps to planning an effective multidisciplinary team simulation, as well as the barriers to overcome when implementing these programs. In addition, the structure and value of debriefing sessions will be discussed. Debriefing has been shown to help participants identify latent errors and voice concerns in a safe, confidential setting. Lastly, we will review the value of multidisciplinary team simulation, focusing on the current literature among multiple medical disciplines. There has been a push for implementation of team simulation in healthcare in recent years, yet there is still a need for future research on this subject to demonstrate the direct effect of team simulation on patient care, especially in the dynamic field of Interventional Radiology.

Keywords: interventional radiology; medical simulation; patient safety; team training.