Augmented reality enhances competency-based training in simulated vaginal birth: A multicenter randomized controlled trial.
María Teresa Valenzuela, José A Poblete, Milena Zamboni et al.
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In 30 seconds
This multicenter, prospective randomized controlled trial with blinded evaluators compared augmented-reality (AR) preparation with conventional text- and video-based preparation for simulated vaginal birth. It included 401 undergraduate medical and midwifery students at two universities in Chile and Colombia. AR-trained students had higher mean DOPS scores (11.9 ± 0.14 vs 10.6 ± 0.15; p < .001), and more reached the minimum competency threshold (12.8% vs 6.2%; RR 2.23; 95% CI 1.07-4.01; p < .05).
Key findings
- Mean DOPS scores were higher after AR training than conventional preparation (11.9 ± 0.14 vs 10.6 ± 0.15; p < .001).
- Critical task completion was greater with AR training (3.6 ± 0.07 vs 3.3 ± 0.07; p < .001).
- Competency-threshold attainment was 12.8% with AR and 6.2% with conventional preparation (RR 2.23; 95% CI 1.07-4.01; p < .05).
- Both groups reported high satisfaction; AR users identified opportunities to improve realism.
Why it matters
Procedural training in obstetrics depends on simulation, while access to high-fidelity simulators may be limited. These results suggest AR-based preparation can improve performance and competency attainment in simulated vaginal birth, potentially complementing hands-on simulation. The findings concern student performance in a simulated setting, rather than clinical outcomes in actual births.
What to keep in mind
Outcomes were assessed in simulated births, so the study does not establish whether improved performance translates to clinical care or patient outcomes.