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Adapting to a Pandemic: Web-Based Residency Training and Script Concordance Testing in Emergency Medicine During COVID-19

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 November 2023

Katarzyna Naylor
Affiliation:
Independent Unit of Emergency Medical Services and Specialist Emergency, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
Maja Chrzanowska-Wąsik
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
Patrycja Okońska
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
Tomasz Kucmin
Affiliation:
Department of Didactics and Medical Simulation, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
Ahmed M. Al-Wathinani
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medical Services, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
Krzysztof Goniewicz*
Affiliation:
Department of Security, Polish Air Force University, Dęblin, Poland
*
Corresponding author: Krzysztof Goniewicz; Email: k.goniewicz@law.mil.pl

Abstract

Objective:

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic necessitated alternative methods to ensure the continuity of medical education. Our study explores the efficacy and acceptability of a digital continuous medical education initiative for medical residents during this challenging period.

Methods:

From September to December 2020, 47 out of 60 enrolled trainee doctors participated in this innovative digital Continuous Medical Education (CME) approach. We utilized the Script Concordance Test to bolster clinical reasoning skills. Three simulation scenarios, namely Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and European Paediatric Life Support (EPLS), were transformed into interactive online sessions via Zoom™. Participant feedback was also collected through a survey.

Results:

Consistent Script Concordance Testing (SCT) scores among participants indicated the effectiveness of the online training module. Feedback suggested a broad acceptance of this novel training approach. However, discrepancies observed between formative SCT scores, and summative Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) assessments highlighted areas for potential refinement.

Conclusions:

Our findings showcase the resilience and adaptability of medical education amidst challenges like the global pandemic. The success of methodologies such as SCT, endorsed by prestigious bodies like the European Resuscitation Council and the American Heart Association, suggests their potential in preparing health care professionals for emergent situations. This research offers valuable insights for shaping future online CME strategies.

Type
Original Research
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2023. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health

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