Evaluation of the effect of a computerized training simulator (ANAKIN) on the retention of neonatal resuscitation skills

Background: Neonatal resuscitation knowledge and skills deteriorate after initial training. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a computerized simulator system (ANAKIN) as a means for boosting neonatal resuscitation knowledge, skills, and self-reported confidence beliefs. Method: A randomized pretest-posttest control group study design involving 60 3rd-year medical students. At a 4-month, post-training interval, experimental group was exposed to ANAKIN and control group to a training video. Both groups assessed at an 8-month, post-neonatal resuscitation training interval. Results: Knowledge level for both groups decreased significantly at 4- and 8-month, post-training intervals despite booster exposure. Confidence level for both study groups increased significantly following booster exposure. However, no significant difference between study group skill levels at 8 months and no significant relation between neonatal resuscitation knowledge, confidence, or skills. Conclusion: Computerized simulator system was as effective as video for maintaining resuscitation skills of medical students, and students were very satisfied with experience of remote computer simulation training. Copyright (C) 2004 by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc.