Need For Training Research Articles

Preparation for Rural Practice with a Multimodal Rural Emergency Medicine Curriculum

Rural regions face emergency medicine (EM) physician shortages. Most training programs are located in cities and lack rural clinical experiences, didactics, and mentorship to excite and prepare residents for rural EM practice. There is limited data on optimal training methods for preparing residents for rural practice. To address this need for rural EM training and workforce, we developed a rural EM curriculum. We began with a two-year case review from critical access emergency departments. Rural EM skills were defined and taught using lectures, simulation cases, and clinical rotations. We obtained quantitative and qualitative feedback from the first ten residents participating in the curriculum. Qualitatively, 10/10 residents gained new skills and found these experiences valuable to their training and career choice, with 100% expressing interest in rural practice and 75% choosing a rural practice. Quantitatively, residents managed a greater variability in patient acuity and volume and performed a greater variety of procedures compared to their academic center rotations, all while gaining unique skills from the challenges of a rural environment. Focused rural emergency medicine clinical experience and didactic training during residency are a promising approach to bridge the gap between urban tertiary care training programs and rural emergency care needs.

Nursing Interventions for Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are a significant contributor to patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. With an increasing emphasis on patient safety and infection control, nursing interventions play a vital role in reducing the incidence of HAIs. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of nursing-led interventions in preventing HAIs, focusing on four primary strategies: hand hygiene, aseptic technique, environmental cleaning, and patient education. A total of 52 peer-reviewed studies, including over 50,000 patient cases across various healthcare settings, were analyzed. The meta-analysis revealed that hand hygiene adherence led to a 35% reduction in HAIs, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.54–0.79). Structured training in aseptic techniques for invasive procedures correlated with a 40% reduction in catheter-associated infections (OR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.50–0.75), while enhanced environmental cleaning protocols decreased HAI rates by 30% (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.55–0.89). Patient education showed a 15% reduction in HAIs, although results were less statistically significant. These findings highlight the essential role of nursing interventions in infection control and underscore the need for continuous training, compliance monitoring, and institutional support. Future research should explore integrated infection prevention programs and technological innovations to improve adherence and expand patient education initiatives. Overall, nursing interventions remain crucial to achieving lower HAI rates and enhancing patient safety.

Provision of online information and resources for resistance training in Australian youth sports: A scoping review

Objectives This study aimed to identify and synthesize online information/resources related to resistance training provided by governing bodies of the ten most popular youth sports in Australia. Design A scoping review. Methods The top 10 organised out-of-school sports were eligible for the review. A systematic search of national sporting organisation and associated websites was conducted, using key search terms. Data were extracted regarding information and/or resources aligning with current international youth muscle-and-bone strengthening activity guidelines (i.e., 5–17 years, three days per week). Results For all ten sports, information/resources on resistance training were provided for athletes or coaches, however the type of information and level of detail varied. There was lack of consistency between guidelines and information provided by sports. Age of commencement recommendations ranged from four years (athletics) to 14 years (Australian football), whilst others suggested resistance training for all ages (gymnastics) or did not provide an explicit age range (tennis and cricket). Regarding frequency, few sports organisations provided a recommendation for how many days per week resistance training should be performed. Some sports alluded to the need for youth to develop muscular fitness to enhance fitness and performance, whilst others focused primarily on the need for resistance training as an injury prevention tool. Conclusions Our findings highlight the gap that exists in the provision of information in relation to resistance training in Australian sports. It is important that national sporting organisations look to educate athletes and coaches (and parents) from grassroots levels on the need for muscular fitness.

Nurses’ reported training needs for advanced cell therapies: a survey on behalf of the Nurses Group of the EBMT

Background Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) for human use have advanced globally with the rapid adoption of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies in haemato-oncology. CAR-T cell therapy and ATMPs have unique, significant acute and chronic toxicities, and appropriate patient care is crucial. Significant challenges, including the need for nurse education and training, accompany optimal patient success and benefits. Objectives This study aimed to describe nurses’ training needs in relation to ATMP management and patient care. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was performed by the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, based on a previously tested questionnaire developed in the UK. Findings 109 complete responses from 86 different centers from 24 countries were returned (1207 distributed). Over 1/3 reported experience delivering licensed ATMPs (CAR-T). High-priority training areas included a general introduction to ATMPs, toxicity management, product-specific information, and regulatory frameworks for ATMPs. A clear need for ATMP-specific training exists and is regarded as important. Training prior to implementation is key and should be supported by ongoing competency maintenance. Counseling, patient support, and long-term follow-up are identified for future training and opportunities for nurse experience sharing in this rapidly evolving field.

Knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about psilocybin and MDMA as novel therapies among U.S. healthcare professionals.

Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) with substances like psilocybin and MDMA has shown promise for conditions including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Psilocybin and MDMA may become approved medicines in the coming decade. This study assessed knowledge and attitudes regarding PAT among 879 U.S. healthcare professionals via anonymous online survey. Multivariable linear regression was used to identify predictors of openness to clinical use. Most participants (71.2%) were female and White (85.8%), with a mean (SD) age of 45.5 (12.7) years. Registered nurses (25.4%) and physicians (17.7%) comprised the largest professional groups. Respondents endorsed strong belief in therapeutic promise, and moderate openness to clinical use and support for legal access to both substances, with higher overall ratings for psilocybin compared to MDMA. Objective knowledge items revealed low knowledge of therapeutic uses, risks, and pharmacology. Primary concerns were lack of trained providers, financial cost, and potential contraindications. Prior psychedelic use, self-rated knowledge, younger age, and professional role predicted openness to clinical use of psilocybin and MDMA, with physicians reporting lower openness. As psychedelics continue to garner popular and scientific interest, results indicate a pressing need for additional formal training to provide balanced, evidence-based information from trusted sources.

New pedagogical tools for vaccine education: preparing future healthcare workers for the next pandemic.

Vaccine hesitancy (VH) is an issue for healthcare students, influenced by safety concerns and misinformation. The need for better communication training and understanding sociocultural factors in VH was highlighted in a European University Alliance seminar. Practical exercises like simulation role-playing, interprofessional collaboration, and digital literacy may improve vaccine education.

Analysis of the matching effectiveness of vocational training for the unemployed: Evidence from the Republic of Korea

The Republic of Korea is in urgent need of vocational training to mitigate high levels of skill mismatch. This article studies the largely unexplored impact of vocational training on skill mismatch using administrative vocational training data (HRD‐Net, 2016‐19). We consider skill‐matched employment rates (as opposed to the conventional employment rate), applying a fixed effects model to analyse their determinants. Our analysis of training course and individual characteristics as major variables indicates that training time has a significantly greater positive effect on skill‐matched employment rates than on the conventional employment rate, but that the opposite is true of individual characteristics.

Professional nurses’ perspectives on the implementation of integrated chronic disease management model

Background: The integrated chronic disease management (ICDM) model is seen to be a promising strategy as it is gaining global acceptance as an approach to enhance healthcare delivery.Objectives: The study objectives were to explore and describe professional nurses’ perspectives on the model, identify challenges experienced during implementation and identify factors that could improve the model implementation.Method: An explorative, descriptive qualitative design was used, nine professional nurses from three selected facilities were interviewed. Data obtained from semi-structured individual interviews were analysed using thematic analysis and NVivo software.Results: Three main themes emerged: the professional nurses’ perceived benefits of the model, challenges experienced during implementation and recommendations to ensure effective implementation of the model. The perceived benefits of the model included the integration of care, adequate medication and the alleviation of stigma related to diseases. However, the challenges of the model included a shortage of staff, poor infrastructure and patients missing scheduled appointments. The study noted the need for adequate staff, infrastructure and ongoing training for the successful implementation of the model.Conclusion: Despite challenges in the South African healthcare system, professional nurses perceived the implementation of the model positively. The study highlighted the need for adequate staff, adequate infrastructure and ongoing training for staff.Contribution: This study outlined the challenges and recommendations identified, enabling healthcare organisations, policymakers and educators to develop targeted strategies for successful implementation. The findings will also inform future research focussed on optimising the utilisation of the model in the study setting and similar contexts

BN O06 - CHOLE-SAFE: A pilot curriculum response to reduce bile duct injuries

Abstract Background The laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a cornerstone of modern benign upper GI surgery; approximately 3% of the population have symptomatic gallstones and over laparoscopic cholecystectomies 61,000 are performed every year in the UK (1). Whilst a relatively safe procedure, bile duct injury (BDI) is an iatrogenic catastrophe with significant consequences to both patient and surgeon. Despite understanding of how such injuries occur and pre-existing consensus methodology in minimising bile duct injuries (2,3); according to the bile duct injury registry incidence has increased. We present a novel curriculum in response. Method CHOLE-SAFE has been designed by expert panel with oversight from parent groups including AUGIS and BBUGSS. The course aims to convey a theoretical foundation in safe cholecystectomy, an understanding of relevant human factors in a no blame culture and provides a practical framework for managing difficult cases. A mixed methods course was delivered, with industry support, to a group of national training number registrars. We delivered a series of: didactic lectures, wet lab skills work and simulation and a written exam as a one-day course. Delegates were asked to provide feedback in an anonymous survey. Results Although delegates had varying experience, no trainee had performed more than 70 laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Two were experienced with X-ray cholangiogram however had only performed one. Most had ultrasound experience, however the average number of ultrasound cholangiograms performed was only 12. 36% of trainees had seen a BDI. There was no significant difference in procedural confidence after the course. Trainees felt more able to perform X-Ray and ultrasound cholangiogram independently (p<0.05). Before the course 72.7% of delegates felt they knew how to avoid a BDI, 36.4% felt able to manage one; this increased to 100% and 82% respectively after the course. Conclusion CHOLE-SAFE demonstrates a robust curriculum in the response to increased incidence of bile duct injury. Trainees benefit from increased understanding of how to avoid and manage complications and technical skill acquisition. Course delivery has been demonstrated to be replicable, feasible and practical to organise. We believe this curriculum to be necessary and addresses a significant training need.

Assessment of Training Needs of the Office staff (Management assistants and Development Officers) in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Introduction: In the dynamic landscape of healthcare administration, the role of hospital office staff is pivotal for maintaining the seamless functioning of the hospital. Training Needs Assessment is a proactive approach to aligning the skills of hospital office staff with the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape, ensuring compliance and promoting excellence in administrative practices and, consequently, contributing to improved patient outcomes.Objective: This study aims to identify the training needs of hospital office staff in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL).Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in NHSL with the office staff from June to August 2023. The total population was 181. Among them, 123 people were selected from simple random sampling proportionately to the category. The self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The questionnaire assessed the activities and capabilities of office staff necessary for their daily tasks. Participants were asked to score these activities based on their importance and current performance level. Mean scores for the importance of the training areas and current performances were calculated, and gaps were identified by subtracting. Training needs with the highest gaps (gap equal or more than 2) were prioritized as training needs for office staff in NHSL.Results: Procurement for the public sector, handling audit inquiries, file management including personal file management, salary conversion, pension management, gathering, organizing, analyzing statistically, & disseminating data and information were prioritized as training needs for next year.Conclusions and recommendations: Those prioritized training needs were included in the next year's (2024) annual action plan with the permission of the Deputy Director General -NHSL.

Learning Languages in the 21st Century: the Digital and Ai Transformation

The article deals with the problem of the learning languages in the 21st century: the digital and AI transformation. The aim of this article is to explore and clarify the transformative impact of digital technologies on foreign language teaching. This article explores the evolution of language learning from classroom-based methods to the incorporation of digital instruments, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Digital tools such as language learning applications, online dictionaries, multimedia resources, and language exchange platforms have made language acquisition more accessible and engaging. AI technologies introduce intelligent tutoring systems, personalized learning experiences, and advanced language processing capabilities, while ICT tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS) and virtual classrooms facilitate effective communication and information processing. The benefits of these advancements are multifaceted, including increased accessibility and flexibility, enhanced engagement and motivation, personalized learning paths, and improved collaboration and communication. However, challenges such as the digital divide, variability in resource quality, data privacy concerns, and the need for continuous teacher training must be addressed. Looking ahead, future trends such as augmented and virtual reality, blockchain technology, AI-driven content creation, IoT integration, and multimodal learning experiences promise to further transform the landscape of language education. These innovations will pave the way for more immersive and interconnected language learning experiences, contributing to a more multilingual global society.

Prevalence and severity of pediatric cases in Stockholm's physician-staffed prehospital units: a retrospective cohort study.

Ambulance missions involving pediatric patients are common in emergency medical services (EMS) globally, with variations in prevalence based on geographic location. This retrospective cohort study analyzes the prehospital physician staffed units (p-EMS) in Stockholm, assignment dispatches and the prehospital characteristics and interventions involved, from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022. Utilizing data from LogEze, a quality assurance system, we reviewed all Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) operations in the Stockholm Region, which totaled 4,682 pediatric assignments. The analysis included dispatch types and interventions assessing the frequency and nature of pediatric prehospital missions. Pediatric cases constituted 20.0 % of RRV dispatches, with the majority involving respiratory distress, seizures, and blunt trauma. Despite high dispatch rates, advanced medical interventions were seldom required, indicating most pediatric cases were not severe. Stand-downs occurred in 30.1 % of cases, reflecting the cautious approach in pediatric dispatches. Furthermore, the study observed a significant reliance on p-EMS for complex pediatric cases, underscoring the value of specialized training and resources in managing such emergencies. The study highlights the crucial role of p-EMS in enhancing pediatric emergency care in Stockholm. Despite frequent pediatric dispatches, the low incidence of severe cases underscores the need for precise triage and resource allocation. This analysis supports the need for continuous training and resource optimization in p-EMS to ensure high-quality care for pediatric patients across varied emergency scenarios.

A INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICAL COMO FERRAMENTA DE EFICIÊNCIA NA ADMINISTRAÇÃO PÚBLICA

The article “Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Efficiency in Public Administration” explores the growing role of AI in optimizing government operations and improving the delivery of public services. Focusing on AI’s capabilities to process and analyze large volumes of data, the article discusses how this technology can be used to enhance efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in government services. The text highlights several key applications of AI in public administration, including large-scale data analysis and processing, automation of bureaucratic processes, and customization of services to citizens. These technologies, equipped with machine learning and natural language processing, enable better resource management, faster citizen service, and more efficient operations less susceptible to human errors. Beyond the benefits, the article also addresses the challenges associated with implementing AI in the public sector, such as technical, ethical, and privacy issues. Concerns about algorithmic bias, data quality, and integration with legacy systems are discussed in detail. The article emphasizes the need for robust policies and adequate training for public employees as essential for successful AI integration. Finally, the discussion concludes with the view that while AI has the potential to significantly transform public administration for the better, a careful and regulated approach is vital. The success of this integration depends not only on technological advancements but also on a commitment to ethical practices and the development of public policies that guide its responsible use.

Attitudes of primary healthcare nurses towards people living with mental illness in Botswana

Background: The global disease burden attributable to mental and neurological disorders has been increasing over the years. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the integration of mental health services into existing primary healthcare framework as one strategy for dealing with the burden. Understanding the attitudes of nurses towards people with mental illness is important for a successful integration and management outcome of patients.Aim: This study aimed to determine primary healthcare nurses’ attitudes towards people with mental illness.Setting: The study was conducted at Greater Lobatse health district, one of the primary healthcare districts in Botswana.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 202 nurses working in the greater Lobatse health district from 01 May 2023 to 30 November 2023. Convenience sampling was used. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire.Results: The prevalence of negative attitudes was 51.5%. The mean age (standard deviation [s.d.]) of respondents was 33.4 (8.0) years. Being a non-specialised nurse (B= –0.184; p = 0.014), having a personal history of mental illness (B = –0.215; p = 0.002), and having poor knowledge about mental illness (B = –0.149; p = 0.032) were associated with negative attitudes.Conclusion: More than half of the respondents have negative attitudes towards people with mental illness. This justifies the need for training and educational programmes and anti-stigma campaigns among primary healthcare nurses to mitigate negative attitudes.Contribution: This study provides insight into primary healthcare nurses’ attitudes towards people with mental illness.

Adapting to a New Normal: Peruvian University Faculty’s Experiences with Techno-Stress Post-COVID-19

Background Technology enhances teaching and learning quality, yet when educators lack tech proficiency, it hinders effective education and leads to frustration, lower confidence, and self-doubt. This study aims to investigate the experiences of university faculty members in relation to the impact of technology on their mental well-being. Methods Using a qualitative approach (grounded theory), ten university faculty members were selected for in-depth interviews based on criteria such as teaching experience, tenure, specific courses or subjects taught, and active engagement during the research period. The guiding research question, “What are the experiences and perceptions of university faculty members concerning techno-stress?” directed the study’s focus. The instrument (interview guide) that measured techno-stress consisted of 12 items and was administered virtually. Data were analyzed thematically to uncover common stressors, adaptive strategies, and institutional challenges faced by faculty in adapting to technology’s demands and work overload. Additionally, the study identified four subcategories: work overload, social and emotional interaction, adaption to new technologies, and expectations and teaching quality. Results Techno-stress is a composite of emotional and physical reactions triggered by the improper use of technology. Faculty members’ encounters with techno-stress have substantial implications for their quality of life. Conclusions This research highlights technology’s positive impact on higher education but notes faculty struggles with techno-stress, emphasizing the need for training, support, and boundaries to maintain work-life balance and enhance educational quality.

Public Hospital Workers' Views on the Process of Switching from the Hospital Information Management System to the e-Health Information System in a Province

The purpose of this study is to investigate the views, reasons for satisfaction, and difficulties encountered by medical staff members regarding the Hospital Information Management System (HIMS) in state hospitals located in Amasya and its surrounding areas. It also assesses the knowledge and experiences of healthcare professionals with e-Health apps in public hospitals, emphasizing their opinions and recommendations for assistance, training, adaptation, and involvement throughout the integration of these applications into healthcare services. The goal of the study is to better understand how healthcare professionals feel about digital technologies and to provide suggestions for raising the caliber of healthcare services. The Amasya Provincial Health Directorate oversees four facilities where the research was carried out. Following permission by the ethics committee, data gathering was underway on April 22, 2024, with a pilot research carried out in April of the same year. There are 913 healthcare workers in the population, and a minimum sample size of 405 at a 95% confidence interval was found to be appropriate. Using the'stratified, simple random' approach, the sample was selected and split into three strata based on occupational groupings. With a median age of 37, 38.8% of the 405 participants were female. 34.2% of physicians, 33.7% of midwives, nurses, and health officers, and 40.4% of medical secretaries and data entry staff expressed satisfaction when HIMS satisfaction was analyzed. The system's capacity to decrease errors and enhance workflow was one of the primary factors contributing to user satisfaction. Furthermore, 42.7% of individuals worked nights. Compared to other professional groups, physicians utilized e-health applications like e-prescription and e-report more frequently. Physicians were more likely to employ telemedicine than other healthcare professionals, who were less knowledgeable in this field. The study recommends developing training methodologies specific to various professional groups and expanding the use of e-Health applications. The study highlights the need for regular in-service training, a more robust technical infrastructure, and user-friendly interfaces to boost healthcare personnel' satisfaction with e-Health. In summary, this study offers important information for strengthening e-Health and HIMS applications and presents important suggestions for raising the caliber of healthcare services through digital transformation.

Assessing the Adoption and Utilization of Drip Irrigation Technology among Tapioca Farmers in Thuraiyur Taluk, Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu, India

Aims: The study examines the adoption and utilization of drip irrigation technology among tapioca farmers in Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. Study Design: An ex-post-facto research design is used to collect data from 90 farmers across four villages. Place and Duration of Study: Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. The study has been conducted for a period of six months (April – September, 2024) Methodology: Out of the district’s eleven taluks, Thuraiyur had the highest number of tapioca farmers, making it ideal for this study. Four villages—Naganallur, Settikadu, Sobanapuram and Koppampatti—were chosen from Thuraiyur taluk for their significant tapioca cultivation and large farmer populations. A stratified random sampling method is used to select participants. The primary data are collected through structured questionnaires and personal interviews with farmers. Secondary data are obtained from relevant literature, reports and government records. The dependent variables are the adoption level of drip irrigation and the extent to which the farmers use the drip irrigation technology. Descriptive statistics mean, percentage and frequency distribution are used in the study. Results: Findings reveal that the majority of farmers (82.22%) demonstrated medium to high adoption of drip irrigation technology. Key practices like checking the workability of the foot valve and maintaining pipeline fittings are widely adopted, while more advanced techniques such as fertigation showed lower adoption levels. Drip irrigation was used universally for water management, with 87.80% of farmers acknowledging its role in reducing water usage and 83.30% citing reduced labor needs. Conclusion: However, only 46.70% of respondents reported increased yields, indicating potential gaps in system optimization. The study suggests the need for greater technical training, financial assistance and improved extension services to enhance the adoption of advanced drip irrigation practices. Policy measures, such as increased awareness of government schemes like PMKSY and accessible training programs, are recommended to maximize the benefits of drip irrigation in improving water efficiency, crop yield and sustainable farming practices.

Empowering the Vulnerable: The Impact of SEL on Traumatized Children's Academic and Social Outcomes in Crises.

This article critically reviews the impact of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) on traumatized children's academic and social outcomes, focusing on studies from the past three years across diverse contexts. It emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive, trauma-informed programs that cater to various settings, while also exploring the critical roles of parents and educators in SEL implementation. Additionally, the paper highlights challenges in deploying SEL in crisis-affected regions and offers strategies to address systemic barriers. Recent studies show that SEL interventions significantly foster emotional regulation, resilience, empathy, and social integration, vital for personal well-being and successful social adaptation. However, the effect of SEL on academic performance, particularly in literacy and numeracy, remains inconsistent. Cultural adaptation of SEL programs is critical to their success, especially in non-Western settings, with a growing focus on trauma-informed approaches to address the needs of children affected by crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these benefits, challenges such as resource limitations, lack of policy support, and the need for educator training continue to impede effective SEL implementation. SEL offers a vital framework for supporting traumatized children, particularly in crisis-affected regions. This review explores five key themes: the enhancement of emotional regulation and social integration, the necessity of cultural adaptation, the involvement of parents and educators, the challenges of implementing SEL in crisis contexts, and the importance of developing trauma-informed policies. The article also identifies future research directions, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms and culturally adapted SEL models.

Machine Learning‐Driven Extraction of Hybrid Compact Models Integrating Neural Networks and Berkeley Short‐Channel Insulated‐Gate Field‐Effect Transistor Model‐Common Multigate for Multidevice Applications

Conventional techniques for extracting physics‐based model parameters are inherently slow processes and often yield less accurate model parameters because of the inflexibility of physical equations. This study presents a novel machine learning–based method to accelerate and enhance the accuracy of compact model generation for multiple devices simultaneously. By integrating a Berkeley short‐channel Insulated‐Gate Field‐Effect Transistor (IGFET) model‐common multigate (BSIM) model with an error‐correction neural network, the proposed approach refines predictions for critical electrical behaviors such as drain current and gate capacitance. Extraction networks dynamically optimize parameter sets for both models, eliminating manual tuning and reducing the need for separate training for each device. The method was validated using TCAD‐simulated 3 nm nanosheet field‐effect transistors devices, achieving a mean absolute percentage error of 1.8% for drain current, 2.8% for transconductance, 8.5% for output conductance, and 0.4% for capacitances. Compared with the BSIM model alone, error reductions of 75, 70, 39, 85, and 81%, respectively, were achieved. This approach showed significant error reductions compared to the BSIM model alone and demonstrated robust performance across devices with variations, proving its effectiveness for large‐scale applications.

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF VISUAL COLOR MATCHING FOR ARTIFICIAL AND NATURAL TEETH BY STUDENT OF DENTAL FACULTY AT KHARKIV NATIONAL MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

The purpose of this study was to conduct a comparative assessment of dental students’ ability to match the color of patients’ teeth with aesthetic restorations. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted from 2021 to 2024 with participation of 2nd- and 3rd-year students at the Faculty of Dentistry, Kharkiv National Medical University, Kharkiv, Ukraine. Results. Accurate determination and reproduction of natural tooth color is a challenging task in aesthetic dentistry, as color plays a crucial aesthetic role. This process depends heavily on the experience and perception of dentists and can be approached subjectively (visual analysis) or objectively (special devices). Although shade determination is a routine task for dentists, errors are still common. The study revealed that 2nd-year students struggled significantly with color matching, especially for natural teeth, with error rates of 66.6% for artificial teeth and 80.8% for natural teeth, indicating a need for more training. Students performed better using the VITA Classic shade guide, which is simplified, but matching the color of natural teeth requires additional practice. The results confirm that clinical training improves students’ color-matching skills. After training, 3rd-year students showed a marked decrease in error rates: 35.8% for artificial teeth and 53.3% for natural teeth. The Vita 3D Master scale proved more accurate due to its broader color-matching capabilities. Overall, the accuracy levels improved significantly, highlighting the effectiveness of the training program. Conclusion. The results of the study demonstrate that training significantly improves students' ability to accurately determine tooth color. The 3rd year students who underwent clinical training showed better results in matching the color of both artificial and natural teeth, reducing the number of errors by 35.8% and 53.3%, respectively. The Vita 3D Master scale proved to be more accurate due to a wider selection of colors and more evaluation parameters. The 81.5% increase in the overall score confirms the effectiveness of the training in improving the accuracy of tooth color determination in the educational process.