Simulation and Active Learning Decreases Training time of an Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment Course in Pilot Study in Malawi: Implications for Increasing Efficiency and Workforce Capacity in Low-Resource Settings
Sigalet, E.L.; Lufesi, N.; Dubrowski, A.; Haji, F.; Khan, R.; Grant, D.; Weinstock, P.; Wishart, I.; Molyneux, E.; Kissoon, N.
Pediatric Emergency Care 37(12): E1259-E1264
2021
ISSN/ISBN: 1535-1815 PMID: 31990851 Document Number: 232917
The aim of the Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment (ETAT) plus trauma course is to improve the quality of care provided to infants and children younger than 5 years. The curriculum was revised and shortened from 5 to 2.5 days by enhancing simulation and active learning opportunities. The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and value of the new short-form ETAT course by assessing postcourse knowledge and satisfaction. We delivered the short-form ETAT course to a group of interdisciplinary health workers in Malawi. Precourse and postcourse knowledge was assessed using a standardized 20 questions short answer test used previously in the 5-day courses. A 13-statement survey with 2 open-ended questions was used to examine participant satisfaction. Participants' postcourse knowledge improved significantly (P < 0.001) after the shorter ETAT course. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the short-form ETAT. Simulation and other active learning strategies reduced training time by 50% in the short-form ETAT course. Participants with and without previous ETAT training improved their knowledge after participating in the short-form ETAT course. Reduced training time is beneficial in settings already burdened by scarce human resources, may facilitate better access to in-service training, and build capacity while conserving resources in low-resource settings.