Evaluation of acute asthma management among emergency doctors using simulation-based assessment

Abstract

Assessment of asthma management competency using conventional methods remains challenging. This study aimed to explore the baseline knowledge, diagnosis accuracy and clinical management accuracy of acute asthma among emergency doctors using simulation-based assessment. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 65 emergency department medical officers at a tertiary center. Participants were evaluated using 2 components: knowledge assessment of acute asthma and clinical performance assessment. Knowledge was evaluated using a standardized knowledge questionnaire. Clinical performance in managing acute asthma was assessed using a simulated acute asthma scenario and a standardized asthma management checklist using real-time assessments. The mean knowledge score was 14.69 ± 2.16. No significant differences were found in diagnosis and management accuracy in relation to knowledge (H = 0.644, P = .725, df = 6; H = 1.337, P = .512, df = 2). Acute-asthma attacks of all severities were poorly assessed, with accuracies of 27.3, 41.9, and 20.1% in mild, moderate, severe, and life-threatening cases, respectively. However, all participants provided high-quality treatment (accuracy = 82.3%) regardless of severity. Knowledge score does not influence the ability to differentiate asthma severity and management accuracy according to established asthma guidelines. The overall treatment accuracy was high, regardless of the severity of asthma. However, assessment of acute asthma requires further refinement.