A Framework for Mass Casualties Incident Commander Simulation

Abstract

Acquiring the required skills to manage a Mass-Casualty Incident (MCI) as an Incident Commander (IC) in the prehospital phase is a challenging learning process. Current simulation methods provide basic declarative and procedural knowledge but need to be improved in their ability to lead to knowledge automatization. This paper proposes a new training simulation framework to assess, measure, and provide feedback on IC management, clinical, and decision-making, information-management and communication skills. Three different models were integrated into this simulation framework: A mathematical model for casualties’ survivability, the IC dual-process model, and the dynamic communication quantification model. A case study was generated to demonstrate the ability of the framework to differentiate between users with different skill levels. Combining the simulation framework into qualification courses and routine training can improve and enhance the skills required to perform the IC role in real MCIs and hopefully increase casualties’ survivability in real MCIs.