TraumaTutor: Perceptions of a Smartphone Application as a Learning Resource for Trauma Management

Aim. We investigated perceptions of a new smartphone application (app) as a learning resource. Methods. We developed TraumaTutor, an iPhone app consisting of 150 questions and explanatory answers on trauma management. This was used by 20 hospital staff that either had a special interest in managing trauma or who were studying for relevant exams, such as ATLS. A subsequent questionnaire assessed users’ experience of smartphone applications and their perceptions of TraumaTutor. Results. Of those surveyed, 85% had a device capable of running app software, and 94% of them had used apps for medical education. Specific to TraumaTutor, 85% agreed that it was pitched at the right level, 95% felt that the explanations improved understanding of trauma management, and 100% found the app easy to use. In fact, on open questioning, the clear user interface and the quality of the educational material were seen as the major advantages of TraumaTutor, and 85% agreed that the app would be a useful learning resource. Conclusions. Smartphone applications are considered a valuable educational adjunct and are commonly used by our target audience. TraumaTutor shows overwhelming promise as a learning supplement due to its immediacy, accessibility, and relevance to those preparing for courses and managing trauma. 1. Introduction Since the smartphone was unveiled in 2000 [1, 2], and in particular the iPhone in 2007, its uses and adaptability have been an unbridled success story with over 40 billion applications (apps) being downloaded worldwide by 2013 [3]. Educational apps are becoming increasingly commonplace with more people turning to the online marketplace to gather and consolidate information. We developed TraumaTutor, an app created with the intention of improving the understanding of trauma in the acute setting amongst hospital staff. The program consists of 150 single best answer questions and detailed explanatory answers of trauma management. Based on the widely adopted syllabus of the Advanced Trauma Life Support course, TraumaTutor encompasses the fundamental principles of trauma management, with chapters dedicated to individual aspects of the primary survey as well as the specialist management of trauma in children, pregnancy, and the elderly. We investigated the perceptions of TraumaTutor as a learning resource amongst its intended target audience. 2. Methods Twenty hospital staff of varying grades who had a special interest in trauma (emergency department specialist nurses, junior doctors, and consultants in emergency medicine and surgery) were asked to use