Strengthening trauma resuscitation education and training in low-resource settings: A call for global inclusion

Abstract

Trauma is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide, disproportionately affecting low-resource settings where access to specialized care is limited. Systemic barriers, including fragmented trauma networks and workforce shortages, contribute to poor outcomes. Strengthening trauma resuscitation through structured education and training is critical to improving survival and reducing disparities. However, traditional trauma training models often fail to address regional constraints, limiting their effectiveness. Brazil has developed a comprehensive trauma resuscitation education model by integrating public awareness campaigns, medical student-led initiatives, digital learning, simulation-based training, and telemedical support. A horizontal approach to trauma patient management, combined with hands-on immersive simulation training, has further enhanced this framework, emphasizing the team approach and non-technical skills essential for high-performance trauma care. This narrative review examines Brazil’s trauma resuscitation training strategies and explores their potential to serve as a template for low-resource settings. By analyzing key educational components, we identify cost-effective solutions to strengthen trauma system capacity. To bridge disparities, trauma education must extend beyond well-resourced environments. Faculty development, sustainable mentorship, and access to technology-driven education are critical to equipping providers with the skills needed to manage complex trauma scenarios. Mobile simulation units and telemedicine platforms expand training to remote regions, while scalable digital platforms enable real-time collaboration. Despite these advancements, funding constraints, logistical barriers, and the need for culturally tailored education hinder widespread implementation. Embedding trauma education into national health policies and disaster response systems is essential to ensuring sustainable, high-quality trauma care worldwide.