Perceived Strengths and Weaknesses of Highly Realistic Training and Live Tissue Training for Navy Corpsmen

Abstract

The U.S. Navy currently employs two types of trauma care training for Navy corpsmen: highly realistic training and live tissue training. Highly realistic training is a scenario-based training method uniquely crafted to replicate real-life combat settings. Live tissue training involves the use of live specimens (typically pigs or goats) to practice specific medical procedures. The objective of this study was to obtain subjective information regarding the perceived effectiveness and the strengths and weaknesses of highly realistic training and live tissue training. The sample consisted of 25 Navy service members assigned to the Independent Duty Corpsman (IDC) School, Surface Warfare Medical Institute, in San Diego, California. Participants completed brief surveys and semi-structured interviews. Results showed that participants perceived both types of training as equally effective on most dimensions. However, unique strengths and weaknesses were reported for each training type. While live tissue training may be better for practicing specific medical skills, highly realistic training may be better for preparing corpsmen for stressful operational settings. The Department of Defense has been tasked with phasing out the use of live tissue in military medical training; thus, additional research is needed to improve highly realistic training and extend its use to other military medical populations. 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT UNCL 18. NUMBER OF PAGES 26 18a. NAME OF RESPONSIBLE PERSON