Emergency Medicine: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Effect of Mass Casualty Training on Prehospital Care Providers in Kuwait

Ahmed Abdullah Alharbi

Background: Prehospital providers, both emergency medical technicians and paramedics need appropriate training to deal with major incidents. Despite the fact that Kuwait has experienced many major incidents and located into a politically conflict zone, there is no standardized preparedness training for prehospital care providers to disasters or major incidents. This study aimed to assess the effect of a training intervention in improving the knowledge and awareness of EMTs and paramedics in the Kuwait Emergency Medical Service (KEMS).
Methods: Thirty-one participants from different ambulance districts in Kuwait were invited to participate voluntarily in disaster management training at Kuwait EMS Department.
Results: The mean score of knowledge was significantly higher immediately after first training program [18.2; standard error (SD):1.9] than before (12.4; SD: 2.8) (P<0.001). The mean score three months later was significantly higher (19.8; SD: 0.5) immediately after the intervention program (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The primary aim of improving preparedness among prehospital care providers was been achieved through the training program. The tests results showed an improvement in score achieved by the participating prehospital care providers. This type of training courses would increase the competency and the confidence of prehospital care providers in providing emergency services.