Prehospital Pediatric Emergency Training Using Augmented Reality Simulation: A Prospective, Mixed Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Emergency medicine
• Medical simulation
• Augmented reality technology

Background:

• Pediatric emergencies present unique challenges for emergency medical services (EMS) clinicians due to their infrequent occurrence.
• Innovative training methods are crucial for enhancing EMS preparedness in high-stakes, low-volume pediatric critical care scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability, usability, and ergonomics of a novel augmented reality (AR) software for pediatric emergency management training.
• To explore the potential of AR simulation as a training tool for prehospital clinicians.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, mixed-methods study involving 22 emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics.
• Utilized the Chariot Augmented Reality Medical simulation software on ML1 headsets for pediatric crisis scenarios.
• Employed structured focus group interviews and validated scales to evaluate user experience and system performance.

Main Results:

• Participants found the AR simulation realistic and valuable for practicing pediatric algorithms, communication, and stress inoculation.
• Positive feedback on ease of use and hardware comfort, but challenges noted in AR-to-real-world integration and technology learning curve.
• Identified areas for software optimization and the need for technical support.

Conclusions:

• Augmented reality simulation is a positively evaluated, usable, and ergonomic adjunct for pediatric emergency management training.
• Further technological development is needed to address identified limitations and enhance AR's role in prehospital clinician education.