Feasibility of utilizing functional near-infrared spectroscopy to measure the cognitive load of paramedicine students undertaking high-acuity clinical simulations in Australia: a case study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Paramedicine education often uses high-fidelity simulations that mimic real-life emergencies. These experiences can trigger stress responses characterized by physiological changes, including alterations in cerebral blood flow and oxygenation. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is emerging as a promising tool for assessing cognitive stress in educational settings.

Methods

Eight final-year undergraduate paramedicine students completed 2 high-acuity scenarios 7 days apart. Real-time continuous recording of cerebral blood flow and oxygenation levels in the prefrontal cortex was undertaken via fNIRS as a means of assessing neural activity during stressful scenarios.

Results

fNIRS accurately determined periods of increased cerebral oxygenation when partic

SUBMITTER: Betson J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11717433 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature