Self-reported competence and confidence following personal protective equipment workshops: A survey.

BACKGROUND

The Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC) implemented workshops to strengthen health worker capability in donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) for high-consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs). This evaluation aimed to assess participants' self-reported competence and confidence in performing HCID PPE procedures following training.

METHODS

A quantitative post-training survey was administered following 52 workshops delivered across New South Wales between 2024 and 2025. The training used a blended learning approach, combining preparatory e-learning modules with structured face-to-face practical sessions. A total of 216 health workers completed the survey, which collected demographic data, training experience, and self-reported competence and confidence in performing donning, doffing, and PPE buddy procedures.

RESULTS

Respondents represented a wide range of clinical roles, including strong participation from rural and regional facilities. Most participants had completed the preparatory e-learning and video modules, which were rated as highly useful. Participants reported high levels of confidence in performing HCID PPE procedures. The majority (89.2%) indicated a perceived need for ongoing refresher training, most commonly preferring annual or biennial updates. Participants also reported high perceived value of face-to-face training for supporting skill development and real-world readiness.

CONCLUSION

The blended HCID PPE workshop model was well received and supported participants' self-reported competence and confidence in performing key PPE procedures. Future studies should incorporate pre- and post-training assessments, objective measures of performance, and evaluation of any cascade training implemented by individual healthcare facilities.