Simulation-based training in Leprosy: development and validation of a scenario for community health workers

Abstract

Objectives: To build and validate a clinical simulation scenario designed to instruct community health workers (CHWs) in active leprosy case detection. Methods: Methodological study involving the development of a simulated clinical scenario and content validation by experts. The Content Validity Index (CVI) was used to determine the level of agreement among the judging commitee, and a descriptive analysis of their recommendations was performed. Results: A simulated scenario with a simulated participant was developed — a simulation characterized by low complexity, moderate physical/environmental fidelity, moderate to high psychological fidelity, and high conceptual fidelity, lasting 50 minutes and capable of training up to 10 CHWs simultaneously. The scenario was validated by 14 experts, with a CVI exceeding 80% for all components. Conclusions: The validated clinical simulation possesses attributes that make it highly reproducible in various national health contexts, thereby contributing to the global “Towards Zero Leprosy” strategy.