Although there is growing evidence to favour simulation-based training, there is insufficient research on its application in paediatric gastroenterology (GI). The utilisation of simulation-based endoscopic training in paediatric GI fellowship programmes across North America was investigated. Between August and November 2018, GI fellowship programme directors (PDs) in the United States and Canada were polled. The electronic poll was pretested and divided into three sections: programme demographics, specifics of existing simulation-based training, and PD views of endoscopic simulation. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the responses.43 of 71 police departments replied. The programmes were mostly academic and enrolled 1.87 1.01 fellows each year. Twenty-four programmes said they utilised simulation for endoscopic training, while eight said they used it for nonprocedural instruction. Endoscopy simulation was utilised for evaluation in only two programmes. Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy were the most frequently trained procedures, while mechanical simulators were the most regularly utilised. Prior to clinical performance, eight programmes needed simulation training. Only two hours were recorded despite the fact that ten programmes provided protected training time. Three programmes reported a structured curriculum, and six reported training their endoscopic trainers.Cost, time restrictions, and a lack of a consistent curriculum were identified as significant hurdles to integration. The majority of PDs agreed that endoscopic simulation is needed to educate both technical and nontechnical abilities; nevertheless, they agreed that simulation cannot replace clinical experience.
Although PDs understand the potential use of endoscopic simulation, particularly for novices, only 56% report utilising it. To increase uptake, perceived hurdles point to the need for low-cost portable simulators and a validated paediatric simulation curriculum.
