Personal protection equipment: Preliminary evidence of effectiveness from a three-phase simulation program

Area of Science:

• Healthcare education
• Infection control
• Occupational safety

Background:

• Healthcare providers face occupational risks from pathogen exposure.
• Proficiency in using Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) is crucial but often lacking.
• Significant errors and competency variations exist in PPE application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a three-phase intervention to enhance PPE proficiency among healthcare professionals.
• To address the identified gaps in PPE knowledge and skills.

Main Methods:

• A three-phase educational intervention was implemented at a Canadian academic university.
• Participants completed an online module, received one-on-one coaching with deliberate practice, and engaged in a COVID-19 clinical simulation.
• Knowledge and skills (donning/doffing PPE) were assessed using pre- and post-tests and standardized checklists from video recordings.

Main Results:

• Post-intervention knowledge and skills assessment scores were significantly higher (p < .001).
• The three-phase intervention demonstrated a marked improvement in participants' PPE competency.
• Specific score increases were noted for knowledge, donning, and doffing.

Conclusions:

• Online modules alone are insufficient for developing adequate PPE knowledge and skills.
• A comprehensive approach combining online learning, practice, and simulation is effective for achieving PPE proficiency.
• This intervention model can enhance healthcare worker safety and reduce infection risks.