Web-based training on ocular manifestations of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) for urban emergency medical service (EMS) personnel

Introduction: Emergency medical services personnel (EMS) are critical for an effective response to a terrorist attack. Recent events at public assembly/mass gathering places underscore their potential vulnerability and difficulty for an effective response. While training and education of first responders are crucial, training specifically on ocular manifestations of WMD for EMS is limited.

Methods: A state-of-the-art web-based simulation training program was developed for EMS.

Results: In addition to a basic WMD education module (agent categories, awareness and response, crowd/perimeter control and mass evacuation from urban transit hubs) as well one module on ocular anatomy and another on basic eye care three simulated modules were developed to address the EMS response to eye injuries that may result from a bioterrorist, chemical or dirty bomb attack. Pre/post tests (addressing six major constructs: knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, influence of subjective norms, intentions to respond and barriers to respond safely) assessed effectiveness. 400 EMS throughout New York State have already completed the training modules and assessment tools.

Conclusion: This program represents a unique technological approach by providing training and education to a critical response group in the urban setting.

The use of simulated training techniques is a novel method of disaster preparedness training.