Small-Scale High-Fidelity Simulation for Mass Casualty Incident Readiness

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Trauma Surgery
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Mass casualty incidents (MCI) present increasing challenges for emergency departments (EDs) due to their unpredictable nature and resource demands.
• Effective response is critical for minimizing patient morbidity and mortality during MCIs.
• Simulation offers a valuable tool for enhancing ED preparedness and improving team performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a high-fidelity simulation for training emergency medicine residents, nurses, and technicians in MCI management.
• To assess the effectiveness of simulation in improving triage skills, resource allocation, and decision-making under pressure.
• To validate simulation objectives across different institutional settings.

Main Methods:

• A small-scale, high-fidelity simulation replicating MCI scenarios with critically injured patients was conducted.
• Teams were given limited time to perform life-saving measures, evaluation, and patient disposition.
• The simulation was adapted and validated at a second institution, followed by immediate debriefing and iterative practice.

Main Results:

• Learners demonstrated recognition of MCI triage criteria (START) and ability to triage critically ill patients.
• Participants recognized the need to limit care based on resource availability.
• Post-simulation feedback indicated high educational value, realism, and effectiveness, with learners reporting increased confidence.

Conclusions:

• High-fidelity simulation provides a safe and effective platform for gaining practical experience in MCI management.
• Simulation training enhances team confidence and preparedness for high-stress, resource-limited scenarios.
• Simulation-based insights contributed to the development of the hospital's MCI response plan, emphasizing triage and resource management.