A Simulation-Based Pediatric Anesthesia Primer Workshop for Anesthesia Trainees: A Brief Educational Report

Background Anesthesia trainees, including anesthesiology residents and student nurse anesthetists, have variable exposure to pediatric anesthesia, depending on training program structure and access to dedicated children’s hospitals. Limited exposure can contribute to heightened anxiety, decreased familiarity with pediatric anatomy and physiology, and reduced preparedness for management of pediatric emergencies, especially in high-acuity and time-sensitive situations. Methods We developed a pediatric anesthesia refresher curriculum delivered as a three-hour, simulation-based workshop during the pediatric anesthesia rotation at a children’s hospital over a twelve-month period. It focused on common perioperative pediatric anesthesia emergencies alongside hands-on practice of airway management and vascular access. Participants were surveyed to assess perceived preparedness, confidence, and anxiety regarding pediatric anesthesia care. Results Among 24 anesthesiology residents, 6 (25%) responded to the survey and all (100%) reported improved confidence in managing pediatric airway emergencies, increased preparedness, and decreased anxiety caring for children, and improved understanding of differences between adult and pediatric anesthesia practice. Mean scores for preparedness and confidence-related items ranged from 4.5-4.67 on a 5-point scale. Responses regarding preference for additional operating room time instead of the workshop were mixed (mean 3.17 +/- 1.6). Conclusions Among survey respondents, a brief, simulation-based pediatric anesthesia primer workshop was associated with perceived improvements in preparedness and confidence and decreased anxiety regarding pediatric anesthesia care. Given the low survey response and reliance on self-reported outcomes, these findings should be interpreted as participants