Developing a National Trauma Management Workshop in Iran Applying an Animal Model

Background: Traumas take a heavy toll throughout the world and Iran is increasingly involved in this problem. So, education and training of medical staff for successful handling of traumatic patients seem necessary. In this study, we tried to develop and evaluate a national training program on trauma management to use animal models through a trauma management workshop. Methods: After primary survey and designing an advanced trauma management workshop, 144 practitioners of one armed force were randomly selected to be trained. Participants could experience some practical and new aspects. For example, they handled high velocity traumas and were involved throughout the different phases of trauma management under the supervision of experienced leaders. To assess the program, participants completed open-ended (essay), multiple-choice question (MCQ), and skill exams before and after the workshop. Results: A trauma training program was developed and evaluated. In essay exam, scores significantly increased from 26 to 58, MCQ scores significantly rose from 49 to 65, and the participant’s practical competency significantly improved from 46 to 75. Conclusion: Immense attention is required to optimize doctors’ training in trauma care to avoid fossilization of cognitive knowledge and skills.