TackleBox: An Augmented Reality Module as a Supplement to Simulation Training for Contrast Reaction Management in Radiology (Preprint)

Abstract

<sec> <title>BACKGROUND</title> Iodinated contrast media are widely used in diagnostic imaging but carry a risk of hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions. Simulation-based training improves preparedness, yet sessions are infrequent and resource-intensive, limiting long-term retention. Augmented reality (AR) offers a scalable, on-demand alternative to reinforce learning between simulations. </sec> <sec> <title>OBJECTIVE</title> To evaluate whether TackleBox, a smartphone-based AR module replicating the radiology contrast emergency management (CEM) kit, improves knowledge acquisition and confidence when used as a supplement to traditional simulation training. </sec> <sec> <title>METHODS</title> In this non-randomized, case-control study at an academic tertiary center, 80 radiology trainees (radiologists, nurses, and technologists) were divided equally between an intervention group that accessed the TackleBox AR module at least twice in the two weeks before simulation training, and a control group that received simulation training alone. After simulation, all participants completed a 10-item knowledge quiz and a 13-item Likert-scale survey assessing confidence, usability, and engagement. Groups were compared using independent-samples t-tests. </sec> <sec> <title>RESULTS</title> No statistically significant between-group differences in knowledge acquisition were observed. Mean Likert scores in the AR group were uniformly high (4.1–4.8), with the strongest agreement that training improved understanding of contrast-induced reactions (M = 4.76) and that simulation is an effective learning method (M = 4.61). Participants rated the AR module positively for usability and engagement. </sec> <sec> <title>CONCLUSIONS</title> Adding the TackleBox AR module to an established simulation program did not yield measurable short-term gains in knowledge or confidence, likely reflecting a ceiling effect from the already effective control condition. There is strong positive perception of TackleBox as a supplemental learning tool. Future work should evaluate long-term retention, optimize content design, and examine benefits across learner subgroups. </sec>

Ähnliche Arbeiten