Can VAST Improve ACLS in Rwanda

Can the VAST Course Enhance Resuscitation Skills in a Resource-limited Setting?

Aim The purpose of this study is to determine if the addition of the VAST Course to technical resuscitation skills training enhances healthcare providers' resuscitation performance in a resource-limited setting.

Objectives

The aims of this research will be achieved by meeting the following objectives:

1. Quantitative evaluation of study participants' resuscitation performance during a simulation scenario before ACLS course, immediately following ACLS course, immediately following VAST course, and at 4 months post training.
2. Qualitative exploration of the barriers and supports identified by course participants to implementing resuscitation in the workplace after resuscitation skills training through focus groups.

New knowledge Lessons learned from this study will help inform the design and the implementation of resuscitation training programs in resource-limited settings. This has potential to improve resuscitation capacity in resource-limited settings leading to higher quality of care for patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Full course participation
• Available for focus group interviews

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refusal to provide informed consent
• Participated in VAST or ACLS training in the four months prior to study