Wearable Technology In Obstetrical Emergency Simulation: A Pilot Study

Background: Medical student involvement in clinical care of obstetrical emergencies is limited. Wearable technology, namely Google Glass, has been used to enhance the simulation experience for trainees at our institution. We present a pilot study that examines the utility of this technology in medical students ’ education through remotely-conducted exercises in obstetric emergencies. Materials & Methods: A total of thirteen medical students accepted the opportunity to participate in an obstetric emergencies training exercise with remote monitoring. Students wore the Google Glass device while participating in two simulated obstetrical emergencies: shoulder dystocia and vaginal breech delivery. A remote instructor monitored the students ’ performance and gave verbal instructions during the simulation. Students then filled out a questionnaire grading the effectiveness of the exercise. Results: Of all participating students, 55 % reported Glass extremely valuable for their education. None reported it as not being valuable. 15 % reported that Glass distracted them in their simulation activity. 100 % of participants reported it being more than “successful " in its potential to improve emergency obstetric care. 55