Evaluation of the Effect of a Computerized Training Simulator (ANAKIN) on the Retention of Neonatal Resuscitation Skills

Background: Neonatal resuscitation knowledge and skills deteriorate after initial training.

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a computerized simulator system (ANAKIN) as a means for boosting neonatal resuscitation knowledge, skills, and self-reported confidence beliefs.

Method: A randomized pretest-posttest control group study design involving 60 3rd-year medical students. At a 4-month, post-training interval, experimental group was exposed to ANAKIN and control group to a training video. Both groups assessed at an 8-month, post-neonatal resuscitation training interval.

Results: Knowledge level for both groups decreased significantly at 4- and 8-month, post-training intervals despite booster exposure. Confidence level for both study groups increased significantly following booster exposure. However, no significant difference between study group skill levels at 8 months and no significant relation between neonatal resuscitation knowledge, confidence, or skills.

Conclusion: Computerized simulator system was as effective as video for maintaining resuscitation skills of medical students, and students were very satisfied with experience of remote computer simulation training.