Training in the detection of psychological distress on board ships through health simulation during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Abstract

Background: An innovative medical simulation course was offered to seafarers during their statutory medical education refresher course. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, they experienced difficulties dealing with mariners' mental health problems.

Materials and methods: One hundred and fifty-three seafarers underwent training at the C3S medical training centre in Lorient Hospital. At the end of the module they were asked to fill in a questionnaire.

Results: Ninety-seven per cent of them were satisfied with their training. They felt that their training had given them confidence to deal with these problems when returning to sea. On this occasion, we tested their feelings on the psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on board and compared their answers with the data available in our telemedical assistance service (TMAS) and in the literature.

Conclusions: Simulation training is an appreciated and effective educational tool for raising awareness and training medical managers in psychological or psychiatric situations.