Comparison of virtual reality simulation and traditional teaching in acquisition and retention of ECG interpretation skills among undergraduate students - a randomized control trial

The Electrocardiogram (ECG) is one of the most important tools to diagnose cardiac abnormality particularly arrhythmias and myocardial infarction. It is one of the certifiable competencies for final-year medical undergraduate students. We determined Virtual reality’s effectiveness in acquiring and retaining ECG interpretation skills among medical students compared to traditional teaching.

Methods: One hundred and forty students were randomized into two groups. Seventy-one students (immersion group) were trained using virtual reality simulation to acquire and retain interpretation skills of normal and abnormal ECG. Sixty-nine students (traditional group) were trained in the classroom using chalk and board. The primary outcome of change in acquiring knowledge of the interpretation of ECG was determined by comparing pre and post-test scores. The secondary outcome of retention of knowledge was determined by comparing pre-test and second post-test scores conducted after eight weeks of intervention. The p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.