Simulation Training for In-Flight Medical Emergencies Improves Provider Knowledge and Confidence

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Emergency Medicine
• Aerospace Medicine

Background:

• In-flight medical emergencies are frequent, posing challenges due to confined spaces and limited resources.
• Current training for healthcare providers in managing these events is often inadequate.
• Effective response requires specific knowledge and skills tailored to the aviation environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of integrating in-flight medical emergency simulation training into a medical student elective.
• To assess the impact of this training on medical students' knowledge and confidence.
• To determine the feasibility of using simulation for in-flight medical emergency preparedness.

Main Methods:

• A literature review identified common in-flight medical emergencies (syncope, respiratory distress, allergic reaction, cardiac arrest).
• Simulation cases and didactic lectures were developed and incorporated into an existing medical student course.
• Pre- and post-course multiple-choice tests were administered to assess knowledge gain.

Main Results:

• Eighteen medical students participated, with average test scores increasing from 76% pre-test to 87% post-test.
• The simulation-based training demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge.
• Qualitative feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive regarding the training's relevance and effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is an effective method for enhancing medical students' knowledge of in-flight medical emergencies.
• Integrating such training into existing curricula offers a practical approach to improve provider preparedness.
• This curriculum model has potential for adaptation to train flight crews and other relevant personnel.