Short-term Retention of Patient and Caregiver Ventricular Assist Device Self-care Skills after Simulation-based Mastery Learning.

Background: We developed a simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) curriculum that boosted self-care skills for patients with a ventricular assist device (VAD). In this study, we evaluated short-term skills retention.

Methods: We assessed skill retention among patients and caregivers who participated in VAD self-care SBML at a tertiary care center. We compared discharge skills tests (immediately after completing SBML) to 1- and 3-month follow-up tests to assess skill retention.

Results: Fifteen patients and 15 caregivers completed discharge and follow-up testing. Skills were largely retained at 1- and 3-months.

Conclusions: SBML results in short-term retention of VAD self-care skills.