Comparison of performance 2 years after the old and new (interactive) ATLScourses

Background. We previously (1997) demonstrated superior clinical but similar cognitive performance after the new interactive compared to the old ATLS c ourse. The present study is aimed at determining whether this difference wa s short term or maintained over time (2 years). Materials and methods. Two groups of 13 physicians out of the original 32 p hysicians were available for the study which compared performance in a 40-i tem MCQ examination on trauma topics and clinical performance in 4 trauma O SCE stations consisting of simulated trauma patients. Paired and unpaired t tests were used for within- and between-group comparisons, respectively, w ith P < 0.05 being considered statistically significant. Overall OSCE score s (maximum standard 20), adherence to priority scores (Priority, scale 1 to 7), and overall approach (Approach, scale 1 to 5) scores were analyzed. Results. Values are means +/- SD; C-P < 0.05 compared to 1999; *P < 0.05 co mpared to old group. [GRAPHICS] Conclusions. Although knowledge base decreases similarly with time after bo th courses, the new interactive course participants maintained a consistent ly higher clinical skill performance level at 2 years. (C) 2001 Academic Pr ess.