Interactive Case-Based Childhood Adversity and Trauma-Informed Care Electronic Modules for Pediatric Primary Care

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) significantly impact health outcomes.
• Training healthcare professionals to address ACEs is crucial but often limited.
• Accessible education is needed to equip providers with trauma-informed care skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate computer-based e-modules for training health professionals on childhood adversity and trauma-informed care (CA-TIC).
• To provide an accessible, self-directed learning opportunity for pediatric residents and physicians.

Main Methods:

• Four self-directed, narrated e-modules with interactive questions were created.
• Modules focused on childhood adversity and trauma-informed care in pediatric primary care.
• Twenty-eight pediatric residents, medical students, and physicians completed the e-modules.

Main Results:

• Participants rated the e-modules highly (4.6/5) for design and quality.
• Statistically significant improvements were observed in knowledge, attitudes, practice, and confidence regarding CA-TIC.
• Key learnings included inquiry about trauma and the seven C's of resilience.

Conclusions:

• The CA-TIC e-modules offer an innovative, self-directed, low-resource method for training health professionals.
• A trauma-informed, strengths-based approach can mitigate the negative health effects of adversity.
• This training enhances the capacity of healthcare providers to address ACEs effectively.