Comparing Virtual Reality Simulation to High Fidelity Simulation as an Educational Modality for Electroconvulsive Therapy Training: A Non-Inferiority Study

Trial statusNot yet recruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
AgeNot listed
SponsorSunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

About this trial

The goal of this prospective, open-label non-inferiority randomized controlled trial is to investigate if Virtual Reality (VR) based simulation are an effective training tool for novice medical trainees. The main questions it aims to answer are:

* Is the VR-based electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) training program non-inferior to traditional, mannequin-based ECT training programs in fostering ECT skill acquisition? * What are the changes in confidence in administering ECT, as well as number of training repetitions completed in the VR and mannequin training groups? * What is the ease of use of the VR-based ECT training program? Researchers will compare the VR-based ECT training program to a mannequin-based ECT training program to see if the VR-based ECT training program is comparable to traditional methods at training for ECT.

Participants will:

* Complete an ECT skills assessment at the beginning and end of the study session. * Watch a 30-minute didactic ECT lecture video. * Be randomized to either the VR ECT simulation group or the mannequin ECT simulation group and be given 30 minutes to practice ECT administration with their assigned education tool.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

Is a medical student at the University of Toronto

Has not received formal ECT training before

Disqualifiers

Visual or hearing impairment that does not allow the participant to use VR.

History of significant motion sickness.

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • Virtual Reality electroconvulsive therapy simulator
  • Mannequin Simulator

Treatment groups

78 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groups