Online vs In-Person Education for Regional Anesthesia Training
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if online learning materials can teach anesthesiology residents to perform a specific nerve block (a type of pain management technique) using ultrasound as effectively as traditional in-person classes. Participants will either learn through online resources or attend in-person sessions to acquire skills in this procedure. It is ideal for first-year anesthesiology residents who have performed no more than one of these nerve blocks before. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity for residents to enhance their skills with flexible learning options.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems unlikely, as the trial focuses on educational methods for medical students.
What prior data suggests that this educational method is safe for trainees?
Studies have shown that using ultrasound to guide the supraclavicular brachial plexus block, a type of arm anesthesia, is safe. Research indicates that complications are rare with ultrasound guidance. Common issues, such as temporary weakness in breathing muscles and a nerve condition affecting the eye, occur infrequently. Learning from online resources like NYSORA and USRA has proven effective and safe for mastering this technique. Thus, exploring online materials to learn this skill is generally safe and well-tolerated.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores different ways to teach a medical procedure called the supraclavicular brachial plexus block, which is often used for anesthesia in arm surgeries. Unlike traditional in-person teaching, the online education group allows learners to independently explore digital materials at their own pace. This flexibility could make learning more accessible and convenient, potentially reaching a wider audience and improving the skills of many more healthcare providers. By comparing these two methods, researchers hope to discover if online learning can be as effective, or even more effective, than conventional classroom instruction.
What evidence suggests that this trial's educational methods could be effective for regional anesthesia training?
This trial will compare two methods of education for regional anesthesia training: conventional in-person teaching and self-directed online learning. Research has shown that self-directed online materials can be as effective as in-person learning for ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia (UGRA). One study found that medical students learning the axillary brachial plexus block made similar progress using online resources or attending in-person classes. The supraclavicular brachial plexus block, the focus here, is easy to set up, making it ideal for online learning. Early results suggest that online materials effectively help learners gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Thus, learning these procedures online could match the effectiveness of traditional classroom methods.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Hermann dos Santos Fernandes, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Toronto
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for medical students who have done less than two ultrasound-guided supraclavicular blocks and are open to learning either through in-person teaching or by studying online materials independently. They must be willing to participate in an anonymous assessment of their skills.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants are randomized into either the in-person teaching group or the online learning group. The in-person group receives standardized theoretical teaching, while the online group engages in self-directed learning using online materials.
Evaluation
Participants demonstrate the ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block technique they learned, evaluated by an experienced evaluator.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for skill retention and effectiveness of the educational intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Conventional in-person teaching on supraclavicular brachial plexus block
- Self exploring of available online material on supraclavicular brachial plexus block
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Toronto
Lead Sponsor