Using simulation as a learning tool in geriatric medicine in Mersey deanery.

Published Date: 01st February 2026

Publication Authors: Rowson. M

Conference Abstract

Introduction: Simulation is widely considered as a valuable tool in medical education. It offers a controlled 'practice' environment for all medical professionals to develop their skills clinically and in communication. Geriatric medicine is a complex speciality in which simulation can be particularly beneficial, allowing trainees to manage age-related conditions and multimorbidity in a safe setting, where errors can be corrected and through reflection, practice can be improved. By using simulation, Mersey trainees have enhanced their confidence in managing the unique challenges of caring for older adults.
Method(s): The Mersey deanery trainee representatives for geriatrics worked alongside medical education faculty at two simulation centres (Aintree and Whiston) to develop tailored scenarios from real-world experience covering deteriorating patients with frailty and multimorbidity. Simulation technology was used and each session included specific communication scenarios mirroring difficulties faced by the medical registrar looking after older adults, which is different from the deanery-provided GIM simulation training. Four sessions have been delivered to date, with further sessions planned twice a year going forwards. Scenario feedback focuses on non-technical skills and human factors.
Result(s): Feedback for the training sessions has been excellent. All participants at the most recent session in May 2025 reported the training was 'excellent' or 'good' and all agreed that their confidence was improved in managing clinically unwell patients. Feedback from each previous session has been used to inform the development of subsequent sessions.
Conclusion(s): The use of simulation is a well validated tool in improving confidence in clinical scenarios while maintaining safety in a controlled environment. The specific tailoring of scenarios to specialty trainees improved confidence in managing the complexities associated with the deteriorating frail patient. Feedback is strongly positive and support from local simulation centres ensures we can continue to offer this specialised simulation training to our registrars in the future.

Bray, L.; Rowson, M.; Et al. (2026). Using simulation as a learning tool in geriatric medicine in Mersey deanery. Age and Ageing. 55(Supp 1), p.i25. [Online]. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afaf368.089 [Accessed 23 April 2026].