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The following is a summary of “Value of virtual simulation in training GP residents in advance care planning conversations,” published in the November 2024 issue of Primary Care by Tros et al.
Advanced care planning (ACP) empowers patients with chronic progressive diseases to express their future care preferences. However, its application remains inconsistent in general practice.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to explore general practitioner (GP) residents’ experiences with practicing ACP conversations through virtual simulation.
They used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach with 11 Dutch GP residents in their first year of training. Participants engaged in virtual simulation, followed by an in-depth interview. Data was analyzed iteratively, starting from the first interview.
The results showed that 11 GP residents found the virtual simulation valuable for learning topics to address and how. Despite being perceived as unrealistic due to limited wording and adjustments, the learning experience was shaped by their prior real-life ACP experiences.
They concluded that virtual simulation was valuable for introducing or refreshing ACP knowledge and skills. Critical reflection and practice with real patients were essential for further developing ACP conversation skills. This approach provided a solid foundation for residents to refine their ACP communication abilities.
Source: tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14739879.2024.2417941#abstract
