Advanced Trauma Life Support Course Delivery: Comparison of Outcomes From Modifications During Covid-19

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Trauma Care Training
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional medical education, including the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course.
• The American College of Surgeons' ATLS course is crucial for preparing healthcare providers for trauma patient care.
• USF CAMLS adapted ATLS delivery using online mobile ATLS (mATLS) to maintain training continuity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the educational impact and functionality of three ATLS delivery models.
• To evaluate a baseline face-to-face ATLS course, an augmented model using mATLS, and a model replacing lectures with mATLS.
• To assess the effectiveness of mATLS in trauma training during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study of six ATLS courses delivered between 2019 and 2020.
• Three models were analyzed: baseline (face-to-face), mATLS-only, and augmented (hybrid).
• Data collected included post-test scores, learner feedback, and interviews with course leadership.

Main Results:

• mATLS and augmented ATLS courses showed comparable post-test scores to the baseline model.
• Learner feedback was generally favorable, with downtime due to disinfection being a key issue.
• Course leadership reported COVID-19 logistical challenges (e.g., social distancing) as more significant than mATLS integration.

Conclusions:

• Alternative ATLS delivery formats, including mATLS, can maintain or improve educational outcomes.
• mATLS shows potential as a substitute for in-person lectures in ATLS training.
• The study highlights the adaptability of trauma training programs to public health crises.