Online clinical readiness course enhanced knowledge and perceived confidence of trainees during the COVID-19 pandemic
摘要
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted medical education globally. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the International Emergency Medicine Education Project’s online COVID-19 Clinical Readiness Course in enhancing participants’ knowledge and perceived confidence in managing COVID-19.
MethodsThis is a prospective, mixed-methods study. Quantitative data were collected through pre- and post-course assessments and surveys, while qualitative feedback was gathered via open-ended responses at the end of the course. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical comparisons, and thematic analysis of qualitative data was performed using customized large language model tools with human review and triangulation.
ResultsA total of 703 participants from 72 countries enrolled, 644 (91.6%) completed the knowledge assessments, and 510 (72.5%) completed the exit surveys. The majority (77.2%) were medical trainees, and 51.4% were from low- and lower-middle-income countries. The median score increased from 60 to 92 (p < 0.001) post-course. Perceived confidence in managing key clinical scenarios, including hypoxia, early symptoms, airway problems, sepsis, and cardiac arrest, also increased significantly (p < 0.001). Participants reported that the course met their expectations, with a median (IQR) score of 9 (8–10). Qualitative feedback revealed high satisfaction and highlighted areas for improvement.
ConclusionThe online Clinical Readiness Course significantly improved knowledge and perceived confidence in COVID-19 management among medical trainees worldwide. Scalable online education may help address training gaps during public health emergencies and support global medical education.