Game-Based Psychological First Aid Training for Midwifery Students

The Effect of Game-Based Learning-Based Psychological First Aid Training on the Self-Efficacy and Problem-Solving Levels of Midwifery Students

Purpose:

This study aims to evaluate the effects of an educational digital escape room game-based Psychological First Aid (PFA) training on the PFA self-efficacy and problem-solving levels of undergraduate midwifery students.

Methods:

The study will be conducted as a randomized controlled trial with a pretest, posttest, and follow-up design at the Health Sciences University (SBU), Hamidiye Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Midwifery during the spring semester of the 2025-2026 academic year. Second-year midwifery students will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group using a stratified randomization method based on their Grade Point Average (GPA).

Both groups will receive a standardized theoretical PFA training program. In addition to this training, the intervention group will participate in an interactive digital escape room game developed on the Genially platform, consisting of short web-based scenarios under 20 minutes. The control group will receive only the standard theoretical education. Data will be collected at baseline (Week 1), post-intervention (Week 3), and during follow-up phases using the Psychological First Aid Self-Efficacy Scale and the Problem Solving Inventory to compare the behavioral and educational outcomes between the two groups.

Midwives play a critical role in providing psychosocial and emergency obstetric support during disasters, conflicts, and public health crises. However, healthcare professionals face high psychological risks, secondary trauma, and burnout during these periods. Enhancing their psychological preparedness, self-efficacy, and problem-solving skills is vital for maternal-child survival rates and healthcare quality. Traditional theoretical methods are increasingly being replaced by game-based learning (GBL) and gamification to improve clinical decision-making. This study utilizes an interactive, scenario-based digital escape room to bridge the gap between theoretical psychological first aid and active problem-solving skills.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Volunteering to participate in the research.
• Having internet access.
• Having a smartphone.
• Having taken the emergency care and first aid course.
• Being an active 2nd-year student in the Midwifery Department of Hamidiye Faculty of Health Sciences, Health Sciences University.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Being a passive student in the 2nd year of the Midwifery Department at Hamidiye Faculty of Health Sciences, Health Sciences University.
• Not participating in educational practices.