Jana Lok, Garrett McDougall, Imran Qureshi, Ted Jackson, Luke Marshall, Paul Dhillon, Megan Wickett, Trevor Jain, Sarah Ibrahim
This study demonstrates the multifaceted benefits of interprofessional, simulation-based medical trauma training for military healthcare providers. Although improvements in attitudes and satisfaction were evident, variations in prehospital clinical competency highlight the need for ongoing evaluation and targeted training. This research advances simulation pedagogy within the CFHS and informs future studies to enhance military medical training and operational readiness.
INTRODUCTION: Medical Trauma-related injuries necessitate timely and systematic management to minimize long-term complications and mortality. Simulation-based training has become integral in military medicine, providing opportunities for healthcare providers to practice time sensitive and high-stakes skills in a controlled environment.This study aimed to evaluate the impact of an interprofessional medical trauma clinical simulation exercise on the collaboration, communication, teamwork, and prehospital clinical competencies of Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) reserve force healthcare personnel.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, pre-post-test pilot design was employed. Participants engaged in four trauma scenarios, including opioid toxicity, cardiac arrest, airway trauma, and massive hemorrhage. Data were collected using subjective and objective validated tools, focusing on interprofessional education, collaboration, teamwork, satisfaction, and medical trauma prehospital clinical competencies.
RESULTS: The study comprised of 21 military healthcare providers from medical reserve units. The study found statistically significant improvements in participants' perceptions and attitudes toward interprofessional education and teamwork. Participants also reported high levels of satisfaction and self-confidence in learning. However, competency levels varied across scenarios, with weaker performance in trauma airway management.
CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the multifaceted benefits of interprofessional, simulation-based medical trauma training for military healthcare providers. Although improvements in attitudes and satisfaction were evident, variations in prehospital clinical competency highlight the need for ongoing evaluation and targeted training. This research advances simulation pedagogy within the CFHS and informs future studies to enhance military medical training and operational readiness.