Disaster management training during COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences and challenges

Abstract

Since the start of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) pandemic, simulation training with large numbers of participants is no longer easy to conduct due to concerns about the spread of infection. On the other hand, simulation training is essential for education to provide appropriate medical care. In particular, disasters are critical and unique challenges, and regular training is essential to facilitate appropriate medical care. Here we report our experience and some challenges we faced while conducting a large-scale disaster training session for all employees of our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. The session was held on a weekday at the end of the 7th wave. This was a blinded exercise, and all employees participated by ceasing their normal work duties. All patients were considered with COVID-19 and were required to be handled using personal protective equipment. Patients who were determined to require hospitalization were to be evaluated for COVID-19 using antigen testing. In principle, COVID-19 patients were to be treated in private, negative pressure units, but assessment of COVID-19 and thorough infection protection proved extremely difficult in practice due to the requirements of managing many trauma patients. One important takeaway for the staff was that protecting themselves against infection should be especially prioritized before assessment patients during a disaster.