Emergency Management Simulation of an Unexpected Opioid Overdose in a Rural Setting: An Innovative Use of Drone Technologies

Background The utilization of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in healthcare presents an innovative and effective approach for the delivery of emergency medical supplies to rural communities. Providing healthcare students with opportunities to work with UAS prepares them to embrace novel technologies in their future careers. Caring for individuals living in rural communities and those with substance abuse disorders are critical components of current healthcare education. Intervention This simulation ready-to-use describes an innovative simulation learning exercise (SLE) developed using UAS technologies to address an unexpected opioid overdose in a rural setting. Methods Students received pre-simulation instruction on the concepts of addiction, emergency management of an opioid overdose , and rural healthcare. Students participated in an unfolding, two-part SLE. Results The first scenario simulated emergency management of the opioid overdose in which a UAS delivered rescue medications. This was followed by a second scenario simulating continuing care after initial stabilization. Debriefing of the simulation and reflection activities were completed. Discussion The integration of UAS in healthcare education provides a valuable opportunity for students to increase their knowledge of innovative technologies. The UAS provides educators with a novel resource to expand simulation experiences, increase student engagement, and promote knowledge retention of difficult concepts. Instructions for implementation and educational resources provided in the Appendix.