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  • Title: A Low-Cost, Low-Tech Virtual Mass Casualty Training Simulation for Undergraduate Medical Education.
    Author: Kolb S, Patel P, Mudrakola V, Nikolla DA, Lee A, Barbour D, Bowers KM.
    Journal: Cureus; 2024 Sep; 16(9):e69603. PubMed ID: 39429358.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND:  Mass casualty incident (MCI) training effectively increases trainees' knowledge and confidence when implemented in a live, in-person setting. In-person MCI training is resource-intensive, but virtual MCI training models are an alternative with similar effectiveness at a lesser cost. However, most of these validated virtual options are based on high-tech virtual reality (VR) programs. We designed and implemented a low-tech, low-cost virtual MCI training model for third-year medical students, using Google JamboardTM (Google, Mountain View, CA) and ZoomTM (Zoom Video Communications, Inc., San Jose, CA) as the primary technological platforms. METHODS:  Learners were instructed on the adult simple triage and rapid treatment (START) and the pediatric JumpSTART triage algorithms over ZoomTM. In small groups, students used a gameboard on Google JamboardTM to simulate a scene at an MCI where they were tasked with triaging 25 patients in 30 minutes, followed by a debriefing session. Students were surveyed on their perceived understanding of the triage algorithms and confidence before and after the event using a 5-point Likert scale (poor, fair, good, very good, and excellent). Pre- and post-event scores were compared using paired, two-sample, and two-tailed t-tests. We considered a p value of <0.01 significant to correct for multiplicity using the Bonferroni method. RESULTS:  Learners reported an increased understanding of the triage algorithms (adult and pediatric), scene setup, and understanding of emergency medical service training/transportation, as well as increased confidence in participating in an MCI (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:  Virtual MCI training can be used as an alternative or supplement to in-person MCI training. Low-tech virtual MCI training models can increase the accessibility of these valuable training activities without sacrificing the quality of learning. Areas for further investigation include low-tech virtual MCI training models' ability to effectively recreate situational and environmental distractions and other challenges better simulated by in-person and high-tech VR training events.
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