The systematic approach to the emergency management of a trauma victim, according to recognized priorities, is part of the problem-oriented undergraduate medical curriculum of the University of Pretoria. Teaching/learning this approach is skills based and is undertaken by a team of lecturers in a Skills Laboratory during 5th year students' surgery practical rotation. They are assessed on completion of the rotation by means of a theoretical test as well as an OSCE (objective structured clinical evaluation).

A CD-ROM comprising the skills required during the primary survey and resuscitation of a trauma victim was developed in an effort to:

1. standardize the skills as well as the correct sequence in which they should be performed
2. enhance students' problem solving skills and critical reasoning
3. add value to the teaching of the subject and - provide opportunities for revision

A problem-oriented approach has been adopted by making use of a case study. Brief text is richly illustrated by means of graphics, video and sound clips as well as relevant information (explanations) that appear in pop-up boxes.

Quest Authorware was used to develop the multimedia. A web-based program was not an option due to the restricted bandwidth and high cost of online learning in South Africa.

Participants will have a chance to view a multimedia program on the skills required to assess and resuscitate a traumatized patient. Innovative ideas on how to improve on the implementation of this problem-oriented approach should emerge from the discussions.

Prof Ina Treadwell
Skills Laboratory
Faculty of Health Sciences
University of Pretoria
PO Box 667
Pretoria 0001
South Africa
Phone: 27-12-354 1182
Fax: 27-12-354 1390
Email: itreadwe@medic.up.ac.za

CO-AUTHORS:
Dr JP Pretorius
Dr CJ Loedolff
Department of Surgery/Skills Lab
Faculty of Medicine
University of Pretoria
PO Box 667
Pretoria 0001
South Africa
Phone: 27-12-354 2106
27-12-361 2793
Fax: 27-12-354 1390
Email: jppret@medic.up.ac.za
metamorpho@doxadeo.co.za