Training of Specialists-Coordinators Within the System of Disaster Medicine Service

Abstract

During the last three years, an interdisciplinary research group at the University of Osnabruck collected empirical data about the quality of vocational training of EMTs in Germany. This investigation used a special, standardized "Emergency-Parcours" at vocational training schools in Germany. This "Emergency-Parcours" included: 1) stations of IV access; 2) intubation; 3) electrocardiogram interpretation; 4) splinting a fracture; 5) helmet-removal with immobilization of the cervical spine; and 6) extended cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (BCLS and ACLS). The trainees, who were tested in this "Emergency-Parcours" were videotaped by a professional film team. The film documents were made in order to analyze and evaluate the study in an objective and standardized way. Some of the results were surprising: 1) The quality of the vocational training of EMS in Germany varied considerably among schools since it is not standardized. The study showed that the qualification of EMTs after finishing their vocational training, is not similar. Patients with the same symptoms are not necessarily treated in the same way by EMTs; and 2) Most of the EMTs who were tested in the study are well-prepared in ACLS, but many have great deficits in BCLS, particularly in the area of CPR. Trainees performed ACLS functions such as an intubation or a defibrillation well. The trainees consistently utilized incorrect cardiac compression and ventilation rates during CPR.