[Impact of the use of simulators on the mental workload and confidence in a digital rectal examination and bladder catheterization workshop.]

OBJECTIVES: Primary: to assess the use of simulators in prostate digital rectal examination and bladder catheterization on mental workload and the level of confidence in medical students. Secondary: to analyze student satisfaction and skills acquired by students with simulators. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, randomized study on medical students. Participants were divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) (only the explanation) and group 2 (G2) (explanation + simulator workshop). For workload assessment, the validated NASA-TLX questionnaire was completed. The acceptability of the activity, the degree of confidence and the skills acquired were also evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 28 students participated in the practice of prostate examination. All participants reported a higher level of confidence after the theoretical explanation. 34 students participated in the bladder catheterization workshop and all of them increased their confidence after the activity. The G2 showed better scores on the acquired skills exam than the Gl. Most students considered positive the incorporation of these models in their learning. According to the NASA-TLX results, less frustration is experienced with the use of simulators in both activities. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of simulators in the training of students may improve their level of confidence, reducing frustration when performing these explorations in the future and improving care quality.