Development and evaluation of a high-fidelity, multi-disciplinary simulation training course for high-consequence...

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Education
• Public Health

Background:

• High-consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs) require stringent infection control measures, including specialized personal protective equipment (PPE).
• There is a recognized need for accessible training for National Health Service (NHS) staff on HCID PPE use outside of specialist centers.
• Effective PPE utilization is critical for preventing transmission during the assessment of suspected HCID cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an educational intervention for NHS staff focused on the recognition and assessment of patients with suspected HCID infections.
• To enhance staff confidence and competence in the correct application and removal of PPE for HCIDs.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary training course was created, combining online modules with high-fidelity simulation using manikins.
• Fluorescent tracers were employed in simulations to visualize contamination during PPE donning and doffing, facilitating debriefing.
• Educational effectiveness was assessed via pre- and post-course knowledge tests and self-rated confidence surveys.

Main Results:

• The course trained 180 healthcare professionals, with 60 participants evaluated for effectiveness.
• Significant improvements in knowledge were observed, with mean scores increasing from 61% to 83% (P<0.0001).
• Confidence in PPE donning and doffing surged from 36% pre-course to 97% post-course, with high participant satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• The developed training course, utilizing ultraviolet markers for contamination visualization, is an effective educational intervention.
• The approach demonstrated significant improvements in staff confidence and competence regarding HCID PPE use.
• This novel training method offers a valuable tool for enhancing healthcare preparedness beyond military settings.