Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide
Published on: January 15, 2017
Simulation and Active Learning Decreases Training Time of an Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment Course in
Elaine L Sigalet1, Norman Lufesi2, Adam Dubrowski3
1From the University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Objectives:
The aim of the Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment (ETAT) plus trauma course is to improve the quality of care provided to infants and children younger than 5 years. The curriculum was revised and shortened from 5 to 2.5 days by enhancing simulation and active learning opportunities. The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and value of the new short-form ETAT course by assessing postcourse knowledge and satisfaction.
Methods:
We delivered the short-form ETAT course to a group of interdisciplinary health workers in Malawi. Precourse and postcourse knowledge was assessed using a standardized 20 questions short answer test used previously in the 5-day courses. A 13-statement survey with 2 open-ended questions was used to examine participant satisfaction.
Results:
Participants' postcourse knowledge improved significantly (P < 0.001) after the shorter ETAT course. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the short-form ETAT.
Conclusions:
Simulation and other active learning strategies reduced training time by 50% in the short-form ETAT course. Participants with and without previous ETAT training improved their knowledge after participating in the short-form ETAT course. Reduced training time is beneficial in settings already burdened by scarce human resources, may facilitate better access to in-service training, and build capacity while conserving resources in low-resource settings.
