The main focus of the European Trauma Course is to provide comprehensive, simulation-based training in trauma care for medical professionals, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and the application of the ABCDE assessment in a “horizontal” or concurrent manner. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas of focus, based on the sources

● Initial Assessment and Management of Life-Threatening Injuries: The course centers on teaching participants how to rapidly assess and manage life-threatening injuries using the ABCDE approach. This involves developing the skills to perform these assessments concurrently as a team, allowing for faster identification and treatment of critical issues.

● Scenario-Based Training: A core aspect of the course is the use of simulation-based workshops and skill stations. Participants actively engage in realistic scenarios, allowing them to practice their trauma care skills in a safe and controlled environment. These simulations help build confidence and competence in managing various trauma situations.

● Teamwork and Leadership: The course emphasizes the importance of effective teamwork and leadership in trauma care. Participants learn to work together seamlessly as a unit, with clear roles and communication, to deliver optimal patient care. The Team Leader Assessment on day three specifically evaluates a candidate’s ability to lead a trauma team effectively.

● Development of Potential Instructors: While the primary focus is on improving trauma care skills, the course also identifies and assesses individuals with the potential to become ETC instructors3. This evaluation is based on factors like commitment to the ETC principles, teaching abilities, communication skills, and awareness of human factors in trauma situations. The emphasis on teaching skills suggests a commitment to disseminating the ETC’s approach to trauma care further. Overall, the European Trauma Course is designed to equip medical professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively manage trauma patients in a team-based setting. It also aims to cultivate future instructors to continue spreading the ETC’s training methodology.