A Qualitative Study on Hybrid Learning Method in Emergency Department Triage Training During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Triage teams in the emergency room face the challenge of quickly and accurately assessing patients with limited information. The triage training program aimed to improve service performance and revitalize the role and function of triage. Continuous training is essential to enhance the decision-making confidence of triage officers, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the pandemic may impact the learning process for training officers. Objectives: This study explored perceptions of a technical evaluation for triage training and the professionalism of officers responsible for conducting assessments. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in the emergency room of a tertiary hospital in March 2022. The study involved 21 participants who received triage training, including five doctors, 11 nurses, and five midwives. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews in Focus Group Discussions to explore perceptions regarding triage training field practices, necessary resources, and the triage system and training evaluation. Interviews were recorded, converted into transcripts, analyzed, and coded until themes and subthemes were developed. Results: Six themes were identified: personal readiness for training, triage role, triage errors, officer communication, triage performance, and improvements to the triage training system. Conclusion: This study evaluated the participants’ perspectives on pandemic triage training. The findings show a need for regular triage training to enhance the knowledge and skills of triage officers, even in a hybrid setting. This training should be supported by a reliable connectivity and learning system. Evaluating their triage performance is also necessary for accurate patient safety assessments.

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