The effect of simulation practice with a live subject on the anxiety level and perceived competence level of paramedic candidates in approaching a trauma patient

Backround: This study was carried out to examine the effect of training on the self-efficacy and anxiety levels of Paramedic students in a realistic, simulated environment of the pre-hospital scene. Method: A total of 72 second-year students in the Paramedic program participated in this study with an interventional approach. The data collection form used in the study consisted of sociodemographic characteristics, a self-efficacy form for approaching trauma patients, and the worry and anxiety scale. Within the framework of the research, a competition named “trauma rally” was organized for university Paramedic students, which consisted of the pre-hospital approach of injured live subjects. Through face-to-face interviews, the data collection form was filled out with the participants before, immediately after and one month after the competition. Results: A percentage of 71.4% of the participants was 20 years and younger, and 85.7%was female. The average self-efficacy pretest score of the participants was 52.54 ± 8.39, and the average Worry and Anxiety Scale pretest score was 48.28 ± 16.39. There was no significant difference between the Worry and Anxiety Scale pre-test, post-test and retention test averages. There was a significant difference between the average pre-test, post-test and retention self-efficacy test scores of the participants. According to the correlation result, it is observed that there is a negative, moderate and statistically significant relationship between the self-efficacy average and the Worry and Anxiety score average. Conclusions: As a result, simulation training with a live subject did not change the anxiety level of paramedic candidates but increased their self-efficacy against trauma cases; It was determined that there was a negative relationship between anxiety and self-efficacy scores. Clinical Trial Registration: Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identification No NCT06556524).

Simulation; Paramedic; Anxiety; Competence

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