Improving combat medic learning using a personal computer-based virtual training simulator

The new military occupational specialty for combat medics, the 91W, requires that all medics successfully pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians examination. The objective of this study was to supplement standard emergency medical technician training with a three-dimensional, computer-based, virtual training simulator and to assess whether scores and pass rates could be increased. Combat medics (N=167) were selected for training through the usual noncommissioned officer unit selection process and were randomized by cohort to the training simulator. Results showed no significant differences in National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians examination scores (t = 1.019, df = 153, p = 0.745, one-tailed) or pass rates (chi2 = 1.575, df = 1, p = 0.209). The findings, however, were used to construct two models of combat medic characteristics that can be used to assist in initial selection for emergency medical technician courses and subsequent counseling of soldiers on course completion. With further research, these models could be refined for Army-wide use to increase the cost-effectiveness of combat medic recruitment, training, and testing.