Simulation in Anaesthesiology: An Investment in Patient Safety

Abstract

The advent of simulation as a teaching modality has been a key innovation as part of modern medical education. This is particularly true regarding the field of Anaesthesiology. Anaesthesiologists are at the forefront of patient safety. The College of Anaesthesiologists hold a conference, specifically discussing patient safety, in Winter of each year. Additionally, their coat of arms contains the phrase "Salus Dum Vigilamus" which is literally translated as "Safety While We Watch". Simulation aims to enhance this pedagogy that patient safety is paramount. High-fidelity simulators and scenario-based training have steadily increased in popularity, allowing insight and preparation for situations that involve the critically ill. As part of my own curriculum, as an intern doctor, we have been exposed to simulation and have been privileged enough to experience it in high fidelity suites such as those in the Royal College of Surgeons. There is a palpable sense of relief when the on-call anaesthesiologist arrives to the scene which often signals the end of the simulation.