Table 1 Similarities and differences between traditional introductory placements and the simulation-based introductory placement
Traditional placement | Simulation-based placement | |
|---|---|---|
Time frame | 18 days, 7.5 h/day | 18 days, 7.5 h/day |
Supervision model | Variable—1:2 to 1:6 | 1:4 |
Total number of cases seen | Variable | 25 (8 or 9 per core area); all students see the same cases |
Practice area | One area, variable | 3 areas (cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, neurological) for all students |
Acuity of cases seen | Variable, depending on placement setting and area of practice; unpredictable within each placement | Planned according to stage of learning |
Pathologies seen | Variable according to placement; unpredictable within each placement | Planned according to stage of learning |
Patient feedback | Variable—none specifically sought | Planned so that all students received feedback on professionalism and communication from professional actors |