Use of Simulation to Train Uncertified Hospital Orderlies in India

Area of Science:

• Healthcare training and simulation
• Patient safety protocols
• Hospital workforce development

Background:

• Orderlies in India are unlicensed assistants performing delegated tasks under supervision.
• Traditional orderly training relies on on-the-job learning, unlike certified nursing assistants.
• This study integrated simulation into orderly training to enhance safe patient transfer techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a low-fidelity simulation session in improving hospital orderly performance.
• To assess the impact of simulation-based training on safe patient transfers and teamwork.
• To determine the feasibility of using low-cost simulation for formal orderly training programs.

Main Methods:

• An interventional study with 280 orderlies using a low-fidelity mannequin for patient transfer simulation.
• Pre- and post-simulation performance assessment using an 18-item checklist and a 3-point global rating scale.
• Mixed-methods analysis including quantitative Paired t-tests and qualitative thematic coding of satisfaction questionnaires and interviews.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant improvement in team performance scores from 33.22 (pretest) to 45.3 (posttest) (P < 0.001).
• 100% of participants found the simulation training beneficial, with a mean satisfaction score of 5.
• Post-training interviews indicated improved communication and patient interaction among orderlies.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training effectively enhances team performance, communication, and safe patient transfers for hospital orderlies.
• Low-fidelity, low-cost simulation is a viable method for developing formal training programs for hospital orderlies.
• This approach contributes to improved patient safety and hospital operational efficiency.