What do trainees think about advanced trauma life support (ATLS)?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Trauma Surgery
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is a critical training component for surgeons and anaesthetists.
• Despite its importance, aspects of the ATLS course have faced criticism.
• There was a lack of data on trainee perspectives regarding ATLS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess trainee opinions on the value and impact of the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course.
• To understand trainees' motivations for undertaking ATLS training.
• To gauge trainee perceptions of ATLS's benefits for patient care and career progression.

Main Methods:

• A structured questionnaire was distributed to surgical and anaesthetic trainees across various specialties.
• The survey achieved a 66% response rate from trainees in accident & emergency, anaesthetics, general surgery, orthopaedics, and other specialties.
• Data analysis focused on reported advantages, perceived patient care improvements, and career benefits.

Main Results:

• 78% of trainees had completed an ATLS course, with 83% deeming it essential or a major advantage for their specialty.
• Over 90% held positive attitudes towards ATLS, with 74% citing improved trauma patient management as the primary reason for participation.
• 93% believed ATLS saves lives, and 83% felt all trauma consultants should complete the course.

Conclusions:

• The majority of trainees hold a positive view of ATLS, recognizing its practical benefits for trauma patient care.
• Trainees perceive ATLS as crucial for improving patient outcomes rather than merely a career advancement tool.
• The study highlights the perceived importance of ATLS in current medical training and practice for trauma management.