Using Advanced Airway Manikins to Train EMTs

     Manikins and oral cases have traditionally been used as training tools for EMS personnel. While practicing in this fashion is safer than learning on actual patients, these methods are limited in their realism and can only be used to train for a small percentage of EMS skills. The next generation of procedure manikins with greatly expanded capabilities has increased the usefulness of simulation medicine in EMS training. We sought to evaluate the perception of EMS personnel on the use of these advanced procedure manikins (APMs).

Methods
     Our sample consisted of 28 EMTs with varying levels of training and experience. All subjects had recently practiced on an APM, including the METI Human Patient Simulator and Laerdal SimMan, as part of their training course or continuing education. Some capabilities of these manikins include simulation of laryngospasm, realistic heart and lung sounds, and intravenous lines. Participants were given a 16-question survey that was designed to assess subjects' perceptions of the usefulness of APMs. Responses were given on a 0–10 scale, 0 being the least and 10 being the most useful. Responses were averaged and means were compared and analyzed.

Results
     Of those surveyed, 95% stated that the APM was superior to traditional methods in preparing for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians practical exam. They also gave APMs an overall usefulness rating of 8.11 in preparing for that exam. When asked which method was superior in practicing emergency resuscitation skills, subjects gave APMs 8.41 as compared to the use of oral cases, which they gave 7.32 (p > 0.04).

Conclusion
     These data indicate that the perception of those surveyed is that APMs are superior to traditional models of EMS training and continuing education. The real value of using these manikins is in their ability to present EMS personnel with emergency scenarios in a more lifelike fashion. The use of APMs is especially helpful for providers who operate in suburban and rural settings and who do not get to practice resuscitation skills and procedures as often as providers in urban areas. More research should be conducted to assess this new training modality, as this study was limited by a small sample size.

Captain Scott Bier, MD, is a flight surgeon and emergency physician with the 4th Infantry Division in Fort Hood, TX.

Captain David C. Hile, MD is an emergency physician at the C.R. Darnall Army Medical Center in Fort Hood, TX.