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Computer simulation as a tool for assessing decision-making in pandemic influenza response training
James M Leaming1, Spencer Adoff, Thomas E Terndrup
1Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine
|May 21, 2013
Summary
This study developed an interactive computer simulation to assess hospital preparedness for pandemic influenza. The simulation effectively improved participants' understanding of critical decision-making and identified areas needing improvement in mass casualty incident planning.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Emergency Preparedness
- Health Simulation
Background:
- Developing effective tools for pandemic preparedness is crucial for public health.
- Existing planning assumptions were used to create a realistic influenza outbreak simulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and test a computer-based interactive simulation of a pandemic influenza outbreak.
- To assess the simulation's effectiveness in evaluating hospital mass casualty incident preparedness.
Main Methods:
- A Delphi process finalized the simulation with over 50 key decisions for 6 role-players.
- An 8-week scenario was played out with 155 trainees making decisions.
- Pre- and post-simulation surveys compared participant beliefs on preparedness.
Main Results:
- Participants reported increased awareness of needs in communications, mass casualty incident planning, public information, and training.
- Trainees identified specific areas requiring immediate attention at their facilities.
Conclusions:
- Computer simulations are effective for assessing preparedness perceptions.
- The simulation facilitated evaluation of preparedness concepts and critical pandemic response decisions.
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