Performance comparison in pediatric fundamental critical care support among staff from the USA versus those from resourcelimited countries

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the performance of participants in the USA compared with international participants taking the Pediatric Fundamental Critical Care Support (PFCCS) course, and the significance of training for resource-limited environments. Methods: PFCCS courses were conducted in the USA, El Salvador, Haiti, Kenya, and Nepal between January 2011 and July 2013. All of the participants took pre- and post-tests. We compared the performance of these tests between international and USA participants. All participants answered a post-course survey to evaluate the didactic lectures and skill stations. Results: A total of 244 participants took the PFCCS course, comprising 71 from the USA, 68 from Kenya, 37 from Haiti, 48 from Nepal, and 20 from El Salvador. The mean pretest score of USA participants (50.6%) was significantly higher than that of international participants (44.7%). There was no significant difference in the post-test score between USA and international participants (78.6% versus 81.4%). There was a significant difference between pre- and post-test scores. There was better appreciation of the course content by the USA participants. Conclusion: International course takers without prior pediatric intensive care training have similar test scores to USA participants suggesting comparable efficacy.