Consensus on technical procedures for simulation‐based training in anaesthesiology: A Delphi‐based general needs assessment

Background Anaesthesiologists are expected to master an increasing number of technical procedures. Simulation‐based procedural training can supplement and, in some areas, replace the classical apprenticeship approach during patient care. However, simulation‐based training is very resource‐intensive and must be prioritised and optimised. Developing a curriculum for simulation‐based procedural training should follow a systematic approach, eg the Six‐Step Approach developed by Kern. The aim of this study was to conduct a national general needs assessment to identify and prioritise technical procedures for simulation‐based training in anaesthesiology. Methods A three‐round Delphi process was completed with anaesthesiology key opinion leaders. In the first round, the participants suggested technical procedures relevant to simulation‐based training. In the second round, a needs assessment formula was used to explore the procedures and produce a preliminary prioritised list. In the third round, participants evaluated the preliminary list by eliminating and re‐prioritising the procedures. Results All teaching departments in Denmark were represented with high response rates in all three rounds: 79%, 77%, and 75%, respectively. The Delphi process produced a prioritised list of 30 procedure groups suitable for simulation‐based training from the initial 138 suggestions. Top‐5 on the final list was cardiopulmonary resuscitation, direct‐ and video laryngoscopy, defibrillation, emergency cricothyrotomy, and fibreoptic intubation. The needs assessment formula predicted the final prioritisation to a great extent. Conclusion The Delphi process produced a prioritised list of 30 procedure groups that could serve as a guide in future curriculum development for the simulation‐based training of technical procedures in anaesthesiology.