Development and implementation of a casebased virtual training program for oncologic emergencies in Botswana

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Oncologic emergencies contribute to a large proportion of morbidity and mortality for oncology patients, who present unique medical challenges due to disease and treatment complexities. Emergencies training of medical staff is important, particularly if there is high turnover. We describe the development and implementation of a program to enhance timely recognition and treatment of oncologic emergencies. Due to the COVID19 pandemic, sessions were conducted virtually. Methods: Healthcare workers who normally care for oncology patients at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH) were invited to participate in a series of weekly virtual case-based lectures. Didactic content was developed between Botswana and Rutgers faculty and fellows to reflect specific management and resources available at PMH. Participation was through live chat case reviews and pre- and post- session questions. Feedback was elicited through Likert-scale surveys. Results: An average of 19 participants (range 13-29) attended the training sessions. Average make-up per session were as follows 16% physicians, 26% Medical Officers, 4% Internal Medicine Residents, 32% nurses, 21% other. Sample output to test PDF Combine only Healthcare workers from Botswana were invited to participate in content preparation and presentation to their peers;3 of 8 presentations were by Botswana personnel. Average pre-session test score was 70% (range 40-89%);postsession score was 82% (range 55-97%). In post sessions surveys, average confidence in diagnosis and recognition across emergencies was 84% (range 71-100%);average confidence in management was 81% (range 57-100%). Conclusions: We describe the successful piloting of a case-based virtual training program in oncologic emergencies, which to our knowledge is the first of its kind. The program was adapted to the Botswana health care setting. Overall, confidence in diagnosis, recognition and management of oncologic emergencies appeared to increase after sessions. Plans are in place to expand the series to more sites within the country, most of which do not have dedicated oncology trained staff.