Learning Preferences for Acute-Care Staff Related to Chemical and Biologic Terrorism Preparedness

ISSUE: Chemical and biologic terrorist attacks are increasingly critical issues for our government, public health, and the security of our country. To date, some research is available on the level of knowledge of healthcare providers regarding preparation for an attack. However, little research on the most preferred training methods to provide this information has been reported PROJECT: The purpose of this study is to describe preferred learning methods of healthcare providers related to chemical and biologic terrorism. A descriptive comparative design was used to survey a nursing staffʹs learning preferences for five specific components of an anticipated training program focusing on this type of disaster. The areas included history of biologic and chemical weapons, specific information about agents, job responsibilities during a disaster event involving these weapons, care of exposed patients, and correct utilization of personal protective equipment and decontamination procedures. RESULTS: The results of this study revealed the most frequently preferred method for training was the use of video and skills practice in a mock drill situation as compared to traditional classroom lecture, written self-study, and computer based training. This finding conflicts with much of the literature which suggests a shift in training from traditional methods to self-study type modules and computer-based training programs LESSONS LEARNED: The information regarding learning preferences related to chemical and biologic terrorism preparedness gained from this study provides a foundation to address the gap in lack of knowledge and the most preferred training method as well as the impetus for further study into training preferences.