A Novel Training Modality for Providers in the Emergency Department Using a Computer-Based Scenario: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Addiction Psychiatry
• Medical Education Technology

Background:

• Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a growing concern in emergency departments (EDs).
• ED providers often lack sufficient knowledge and confidence in managing SUDs, impacting patient outcomes.
• A need exists for effective training solutions for SUD management in the ED setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the desirability, applicability, and acceptability of a computer-based Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) education module for ED providers.
• To assess changes in SUD knowledge and proficiency scores among ED providers after completing the SBIRT training.

Main Methods:

• A computer-based SBIRT education scenario was developed for ED providers at an academic medical center.
• Fifteen participants evaluated the tool's desirability, applicability, and acceptability.
• A pre-/post-test design measured changes in SUD knowledge and proficiency.

Main Results:

• The SBIRT education scenario received high ratings (≥4.0/5.0) for desirability, applicability, and acceptability.
• Participant knowledge scores showed a non-significant increase from 3.5 to 3.8.
• Proficiency scores demonstrated a 25% improvement.

Conclusions:

• Computer-based SBIRT training is a potentially acceptable and effective method for enhancing ED provider proficiency in addressing SUDs.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to validate these findings.