Enhancing Combat Medic training with 3D virtual environments

Abstract

Mannequin training is a key component of combat medic training, but availability of such training can be limited. Virtual environments can provide a risk-free setting to teach, practice, and reinforce triage and treatment skills without a need for an instructor presence. This paper discusses the Combat Medic application, geared towards US Army MOS 68W combat medics, focusing on step-by-step training for addressing the top three causes of preventable deaths on the modern battlefield (hemorrhage, airway management, and tension pneumothorax). The application is designed to virtually replicate a traditional simulation experience without the need for instructor driven physiological responses and allowing a wide range of training modalities: self-directed individual training, instructor-directed individual training (remote or onsite), self-directed group training (remote or onsite), instructor-directed group training (remote or onsite), along with instructor review of game sessions.