RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Most Norwegian hospitals have systematically trained trauma teams in cooperation with the BEST Foundation: Better & systematic trauma care. A group of general practitioners, ambulance personnel and primary care nurses have modified this training concept for use in general practise, with the aim to strengthen acute medical competence within Norwegian primary health care. This study describes experience gained with a training method for dealing with receival and stabilisation of victims of injury in multiprofessional teams in primary health care. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Multiprofessional training courses were held in 10 municipalities in Finnmark county in northern Norway. The course consisted of two hours of lectures on handling of critically injured patients in the primary care setting, followed by practical training with simulated patients. Communication, leadership and cooperation was emphasised during the training. The simulation sessions with dolls were video recorded and evaluated after each session. Individual questionnaires were distributed before and after training. RESULTS: Most municipalities that we contacted responded positively. Training was arranged for 22 teams and 145 participants completed questionnaires. The participants reported a significantly improved confidence in their own role and the correct order of necessary procedures. 91% would recommend the course to a colleague. INTERPRETATION: This group of different health professionals reported a great need for training and a high outcome after the intervention. The findings support further dissemination of this training method in Norwegian primary health care.