Virtual-reality-enhanced mannequin to train emergency physicians to examine dizzy patients using the HINTS method
Guillaume Ursat, Morgane Corda, Julien Ryard, Christophe Guillet, Caroline Guigou, Cindy Tissier, Alexis Bozorg Grayeli · Frontiers in Neurology · 2024
Introduction: Acute vertigo is a frequent chief complaint in the emergency departments, and its efficient management requires thorough training. The HINTS protocol is a valid method to screen patients in the emergency room, but its application in routine is hindered by the lack of training. This study aimed to evaluate the training of emergency physicians for the HINTS method based on a mannequin-based virtual reality simulator (MBVRS). Methods: We conducted a monocenter, prospective, longitudinal, and randomized cohort study in an Emergency Department at a regional university hospital. We included 34 emergency physicians randomized into two equal groups matched by age and professional experience. The control group attended a theoretical lesson with video demonstrations and the test group received a simulation-based training in addition to the lecture. Results: < 001, Fisher's exact test). Evaluation at 6 months showed a similar advantage to the test group. Discussion: The MBVRS is a useful pedagogic tool for the HINTS protocol in the emergency department. The advantage of a unique training session can be measured up to 6 months after the lesson.