Project title
Impact of an innovative high-consequence infectious disease training course on patient safety and the wellbeing of healthcare professionals
Country
UK
Background
High-consequence infectious diseases are characterised by high case-fatality ratios and have the potential for human-to-human transmission in community and healthcare environments. Timely and effective training of healthcare professionals in enhanced infection control precautions is the key to safe and effective care delivery. Simulation training is an accepted part of clinical skills training. However, there is little data to support its use in the care of patients with suspected and confirmed high-consequence infectious diseases.
Summary
This study will establish the long-term educational effectiveness of a training course that blends online learning with simulation that includes direct visualisation of pathogen transmission using ultraviolet markers. In addition to measuring skill retention over time, we will establish the wellbeing impacts of the course, and measure how course attendance impacts patient care in a clinical setting. We will use a mixed methods approach, including structured assessments of knowledge and skill, qualitative interviews, and post-case debriefs following clinical cases.
Outcome
This study will provide important information on the optimum methodologies for training healthcare professionals to provide care for patients with suspected or confirmed high-consequence infectious diseases. The results have the potential to inform national and international best practice guidelines, supporting staff safety and effective patient care.
Visit https://www.hcid-training.co.uk/ for further information on the HCID simulation training programme.