The Use of a Hemodynamic Monitor Perceptual and Adaptive Learning Module to Improve Clinical Interpretation Skills in Anesthesiology Residents.

BACKGROUND: Perceptual and adaptive learning modules (PALMs) are educational tools designed to enhance pattern recognition and long-term memory. We evaluated the impact of a hemodynamic monitor PALM on first-year anesthesiology residents' performance in diagnosing clinical abnormalities via waveform and vital sign interpretation on simulated monitors. METHODS: First-year residents were randomly assigned to a group (n = 20) that used the hemodynamic monitor PALM or a control group (n = 21) that did not. Both groups received a pretest that measured their accuracy and fluency (percentage of responses that were both accurate and made within a target response time) in hemodynamic monitoring interpretation. The PALM group then completed the PALM and an immediate posttest within 30 minutes. The Control group only completed an immediate posttest within 30 minutes. Both groups received a delayed test after 1 month. Accuracy and fluency in diagnosing clinical abnormalities at 1 month were the primary outcomes. RESULTS: Pretest accuracy and fluency were similar between the 2 groups. The PALM group accuracy (mean = 87% ± 3%) and fluency (mean = 64% ± 4%) were statistically significantly better than the control group accuracy (mean = 67% ± 6%, P = .001, d = 1.39) and fluency (mean = 45% ± 6%, P = .01, d = 1.11) in diagnosing clinical abnormalities at 1 month. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to a hemodynamic monitor PALM significantly improved the accuracy and fluency in diagnosing clinical abnormalities in a group of first-year anesthesiology residents at 1 month. The hemodynamic monitor PALM can be used to enhance the interpretation of waveform abnormalities in novices.