Simulation-based Training Programme and Preparedness Testing for COVID-19 Using System Integration Methodology

Overview

Journal BMJ Simul Technol Enhanc Learn

Date 2023 Aug 3

PMID 37534698

Authors

Hani M S Lababidi

Usamah Alzoraigi

Abdullah Abdulaziz Almarshed

Waleed Alharbi

Mohamad AlAmar

Amer A Arab

Mahmoud A Mukahal

Faisal A Alasmari

Bandar Y Mzahim

Husam A M AlHarastani

Salem S Alammi

Yousef I Alawad

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 pandemic is presenting serious challenges to the world's healthcare systems. The high communicability of the COVID-19 necessitates robust medical preparedness and vigilance.

Objective: To report on the simulation-based training and test preparedness activities to prepare healthcare workers (HCWs) for effective and safe handling of patients with COVID-19.

Methodology: Two activities were conducted: simulation-based training to all HCWs and a full-scale unannounced simulation-based disaster exercise at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC). The online module was designed to enhance the knowledge on COVID-19. This module was available to all KFMC staff. The five hands-on practical part of the course was available to frontliner HCWs. The unannounced undercover simulated patients' full-scale COVID-19 simulation-based disaster exercise took place in the emergency department over 3 hours. Six scenarios were executed to test the existing plan in providing care of suspected COVID-19 cases.

Results: 2620 HCWs took the online module, 17 courses were conducted and 337 frontliner HCWs were trained. 94% of learners were satisfied and recommended the activity to others. The overall compliance rate of the full-scale COVID-19 disaster drill with infection control guidelines was 90%. Post-drill debriefing sessions recommended reinforcing PPE training, ensuring availability of different sizes of PPEs and developing an algorithm to transfer patients to designated quarantine areas.

Conclusion: Simulation-based training and preparedness testing activities are vital in identifying gaps to apply corrective actions immediately. In the presence of a highly hazardous contagious disease like COVID-19, such exercises are a necessity to any healthcare institution.

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