Task trainers for distant home simulation training during COVID-19 restrictions

Due to covid-19 pandemic restrictions in 2020 medical students were not able to attend on-site practical training and learn various practical skills. The aim of this study was to find and create a solution for distant practical skills online learning Task trainers for learning and practicing various medical skills (such as i/v injections, i/m injections, nasogastric tube insertion, and others) were created and sent to student's residences. These trainers were implemented and used for practicing during online classes. The number of medical skills learned during distant online simulation classes was summarized and analyzed Technical requirements were defined and manufacturing of 3 different types of task trainers (task-trainer for different injections, task-trainer for Naso-gastral feeding, and task-trainer for urinary catheterization) was performed. The total number of 207 home simulation training sets (including 3 task-trainers and additional equipment) was manufactured and delivered to students. Home simulation training sets allowed students to learn 20 different medical skills (injection task-trainer – 10 skills, nasogastric feeding task-trainer – 3 skills, and urinary catheterization task-trainer – 7 skills) during home online classes. Manufacturing and integration of home simulation training sets in online home studies, allowed students to learn practical skills defined in the study program curriculum. Task-trainers for online home training showed high reliability and good resistance while students were mastering their skills. Based on survey results (highly positive feedbacks) performed by students, task-trainers for online home training were realistic, well-performing, and fundamental in ensuring a qualitative home online learning process. Manufacturing of home simulation training sets will be continued in case of necessity for distant learning in the future.