How is the ATLS structured?
Duration and Format
Duration: The ATLS course generally spans 2 to 3 days.
Format: It includes a combination of lectures, interactive discussions, practical skills stations, and simulated patient assessments.
Core Components
Pre-Course Preparation:
Participants are usually required to complete pre-course materials, often involving reading the latest edition of the ATLS Student Course Manual.
Some courses may include pre-tests to assess baseline knowledge.
Lectures:
The lectures cover essential topics in trauma care, including initial assessment, shock management, airway management, and management of specific injuries (head, chest, abdomen, spine, musculoskeletal).
These presentations are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the systematic approach to trauma care according to the latest evidence-based guidelines.
Practical Skills Stations:
Participants engage in hands-on practice at various skills stations. These stations are designed to teach and test specific skills such as:
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Airway management
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Breathing and ventilation support
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Circulation and hemorrhage control
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Trauma ultrasound application
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Splinting and immobilization techniques
These stations use manikins and other simulation tools to mimic real-life scenarios.
Patient Assessment and Management Scenarios:
During these interactive sessions, participants apply their knowledge and skills in simulated patient scenarios. This typically involves a team-based approach to manage and stabilize trauma patients.
Scenarios are crafted to challenge participants to think critically and apply the ATLS principles under pressure.
Testing and Evaluation:
Written Test: At the end of the course, participants take a multiple-choice question (MCQ) test that covers the theoretical knowledge imparted during the course.
Practical Test: Participants also undergo practical tests where they must demonstrate their ability in managing trauma patients in simulated environments.
Certification:
Upon successful completion of both the written and practical tests, participants receive ATLS certification. This certification is typically valid for four years, after which a refresher course or recertification is required.
