The need for simulation training in medical curricula and hospital settings was the focus of a conference for global healthcare experts which began today (Feburary 26) in Dubai.

The two-day UAE’s First Clinical Simulation Conference is being held at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Academic Medical Centre in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC).

Simulation training gives students and health professionals the opportunity to practise team dynamics and problem-solving skills to ensure patient safety, said a statement.

The majority of medical errors are the result of human factors' breakdown such as poor communication, inadequate monitoring, failure to cross-check drugs and equipment rather than the lack of technical knowledge, it said.

The conference was organised by DHCC and endorsed by the Society in Europe for Simulation Applied to Medicine (Sesam).

Dr Ralf Krage, president of Sesam, said: “Patient care is becoming increasingly complex. Healthcare professionals have to work in teams rather than as individuals.

“The skills necessary to deliver excellent team performance are usually not covered in curricula. Doctors and nurses often underestimate the effects of stress on performance, which emphasise the need for a new safety culture.”

“Knowledge and training in human factor related clinical situations are crucial for improvements in patient safety,” he added.

Dr Amer Sharif, managing director – Education, DHCC, said: “The importance of simulation-based training hasn’t been highlighted in the region as prominently as it has been through the Conference. We look forward to benefitting from the conference to produce tangible results that ultimately improve standards of patient safety.”

The opening day of the conference focused on simulation training inclusion in medical curricula through sessions, presentations, case studies, and scenario preparations, which the second day will focus on the different aspects of simulation-based training in settings like aviation, nursing and emergency medicine, he added. - TradeArabia News Service