Background and aims: As conducting the regular trauma team simulation training is expensive and time-consuming, its effects must be explored. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of a structured 2-h in situ multiprofessional trauma team simulation training course on non-technical skills.
Materials and methods: This prospective study comprised 90 trauma teams with 430 participants. The structured, 2-h course consisted of an introductory lecture and two different simulations with debriefings. Data were collected using a pre-post self-assessment questionnaire. In addition, the expert raters used the T-NOTECHS scale.
Results: The following non-technical skills improved significantly among both medical doctors and nurses: knowledge of the trauma resuscitation guidelines, problem identification, decision making, situation awareness/coping with stress, communication and interaction, time management, being under authority, and confidence in one's role in a team. The teams improved significantly in leadership, cooperation and resource management, communication and interaction, assessment and decision making, and situation awareness/coping with stress.
Conclusion: A short, structured 2-h in situ trauma team simulation training course is effective in improving non-technical skills.
Keywords: Advanced Trauma Life Support care; crew resource management; patient care team; simulation training.