Structure and Evaluation of an 8-Hour Bioreadiness Training Program

Structure and Evaluation of an 8-Hour Bioreadiness Training Program Pages E30-E31 D. Haiduven*, C. Kabrick, J. McCluskey Close Close preview | Purchase PDF (60 K) | Related articles | Related reference work articles AbstractAbstract Abstract ISSUE: There is an ongoing effort to prepare the United States for a potential bioterrorism attack. Educating healthcare workers, first responders, safety professionals, and industrial hygienists is an essential component of such planning. The University of South Florida Center for Biological Defense has developed an 8-hour bioreadiness program to help address this training need. PROJECT: The program uses a “Train-the-Trainer” concept, which is provided at no cost. Attendees complete a pre-test, post-test, and course evaluation in order to measure program effectiveness and continually improve the training. Following completion of the class, participants receive course materials and a CD-ROM with all of the presentations. Program objectives include: 1) define bioterrorism and name two potential targets along with a possible delivery system, 2) list the CDC Category A Agents, 3) describe three practical ways to help protect a building against biological attack, and 4) list the contraindications to smallpox vaccination. Individual lectures cover the following topics: Historical Perspective on Biological Warfare, Recognizing the Threat, Selected Agents of Bioterrorism, Protecting Buildings from a Biological Attack, The U.S. Smallpox Response Plan, and Personal Protective Equipment. RESULTS: Eight programs have been delivered to over 300 attendees. Seventy percent rated coverage of course objectives as excellent, and 26% believed coverage was good. Overall, 68% felt the course was excellent, while 27% felt it was good. The highest-rated lectures were Historical Perspective and Selected Agents of Bioterrorism. Eighty-eight percent believed the course met their professional needs, and 92% would recommend the course to a colleague. LESSONS LEARNED: The program received high ratings from participants. Instructors used attendee evaluations to improve the program, for example, to increase the time for questions, offer interactive scenarios, and give short breaks after each lecture. The lectures are continually updated, particularly the U. S. Smallpox Vaccine Program, to reflect the most current information. Educating persons who are responsible for protecting the safety of all Americans is essential. This program is one method to help achieve this important task.