Authors: Wasserman R et al.
Cureus, 2025; DOI: 10.7759/cureus.93102
Summary
This study evaluated whether a high-acuity “Red Trauma” simulation could improve new anesthesia residents’ confidence, comfort, and readiness for independent overnight call. Thirteen CA-1 residents participated in a scenario involving a 25-year-old trauma patient with a positive FAST exam, worsening hemodynamics, and initiation of a massive transfusion protocol. The simulation recreated the sequence of induction, decompensation, and aggressive resuscitation, using realistic monitors, equipment, and OR workflow.
Residents completed confidence and comfort surveys before and after the exercise. Prior to the simulation, most CA-1s felt unprepared for overnight call responsibilities and unsure about independently initiating or managing a massive transfusion.
Participation in the simulation led to a clear, universal improvement: all residents reported increased confidence, greater comfort with crisis management, and stronger readiness for managing MTP events during overnight call. This demonstrates that realistic trauma simulation meaningfully bridges the gap between intern-year experience and early anesthesia training demands.
What You Should Know
• Overnight call early in residency is anxiety-provoking, especially for trauma and hemodynamic instability.
• A single structured simulation significantly improved CA-1 confidence and perceived readiness.
• Simulation helped residents feel prepared for MTP activation, transfusion management, and rapid decision-making.
• Targeted trauma drills can help new residents transition more safely and confidently into independent overnight coverage.
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