Trauma Team Training

Using the NetworkZ™ methodology, advanced high-fidelity simulation in-situ in emergency departments has been funded through the National Trauma Network in regional hospitals. 

These courses meet a training gap to improve communication and processes of care provided to trauma patients in the Emergency Department. Trauma teams do not work together on a day-to-day basis but are expected to function effectively under high-stress conditions. Precise and rapid reaction by clinical teams is required for trauma patients to provide life-saving care. 

Initial Trauma Team Training pilots were developed to address this gap and are based on the high-fidelity simulation courses designed for the Operating Room. 

What is involved?  

Multi-disciplinary simulation-based training has been shown to result in more effective delivery of care, with significant improvements in the efficiency and safety culture of patient care. 

The SimMan 3G used in these trainings have been enhanced and tailored for the different needs and experiences of the relevant emergency department (ED) trauma teams. The training engages teams in practical scenarios, with activities relevant to their own practice.  

In the trauma environment it has been shown to improve processes of care in the ED and ensure patients receive the correct intervention early on. 

The pilots run to date have been very highly received by participants and faculty. With the intention to have trained instructors in all DHBs to sustain this, the National Network now aims to roll out this training programme nationally. 

Benefits of the trauma team training programme: 

• Adjustments in process or systems in the ED
• Improving communication between teams
• Improvement in teamwork
• Correct interventional care/location
• Cost benefit for funders
• Delivers confidence in providers
• Patient satisfaction

National roll-out of the Trauma Team Training course

We are excited to announce that funding for national roll-out of the Trauma Team Training has been secured as a partnership between the Network, the NZ Community Road Safety Fund, and the 20 DHBs.  Uniservices is the provider for the course under the NetworkZ™ branding.

The pilots were so successful that further courses funded by the Network were rolled out while we sought funding for full national rollout.  Now the funding is secured, we are drafting an indicative timetable which entails two courses in each hospital over the next 30 months.

For more information visit the Networkz website.

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