An Escape Room to Orient Preclinical Medical Students to the Simulated Medical Environment
Aimee T. Martin, Sarah N. Gibbs
Abstract
Introduction: Simulation is increasingly being used in the preclinical years of US medical school curricula to provide experiential learning opportunities for students. However, preclinical medical students may not be able to access the full benefits of immersive simulation scenarios without an in-depth introduction to the simulation environment and manikin. An escape room may be an effective way to orient students in an interactive manner to overcome this barrier. Methods: We designed and implemented a 90-minute escape room orientation activity to address student discomfort in the simulation environment by providing a team-based, hands-on exploration of identified critical features of the room and manikin in the guise of a routine clinic visit for a patient. We surveyed learners on their confidence immediately following the escape room and on their perceptions of the session effectiveness following their first simulation. Results: in preparing them for participation in a simulated patient case. Discussion: Implementing an escape room orientation activity for preclinical medical students was effective in preparing students to participate in their first immersive simulation scenario.