A Simulation-based PPE orientation training curriculum for novice physicians.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Healthcare Simulation

Background:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for preventing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) transmission.
• The effectiveness of resident training in proper PPE use and donning/doffing procedures remains under-explored.
• This study investigated the impact of a formalized PPE educational session on resident contamination and knowledge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based training in improving resident knowledge and performance of PPE protocols.
• To assess the reduction in contamination after a standardized PPE training session.
• To measure improvements in donning and doffing sequence adherence among residents.

Main Methods:

• First-year residents underwent a knowledge test, PPE donning, simulated resuscitation, and doffing before and after training.
• A standardized simulation-based training focused on PPE donning and doffing protocols was implemented.
• Contamination was assessed using ultraviolet light after doffing, and donning/doffing sequences were video-recorded and rated.

Main Results:

• Post-training contamination decreased significantly from 81% to 17% (P<0.001), with wrist contamination reducing from 50% to 10%.
• Adherence to donning and doffing sequences improved dramatically, from 52% to 98% and 46% to 85%, respectively (P<0.001).
• Participant knowledge increased from 62% to 87% (P<0.001), alongside enhanced confidence and preparedness.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is an effective method for enhancing resident knowledge and performance in using PPE.
• Formalized PPE training significantly reduces contamination and improves adherence to safety protocols.
• This training approach is vital for equipping healthcare professionals to prevent infectious disease transmission.