Mixed Reality–Exploring the Requirements of Realism in the Context of Mass Casualty Incident Training

Introduction: The occurrence of mass casualty incidents is increasing globally. Training an essential cornerstone in achieving disaster preparedness, yet studies show that medical first responders perceive their level readiness to face as inadequate. As real-world training exercises can be characterized resource-intensive terms cost and time, virtual environments have been highlighted a potential alternative incident training. In order increase the preparedness responders, deeper understanding requirements context needed. Method: Individual, contextual interviews were conducted with total 26 from four European emergency service organizations: Hellenic Rescue Team (Greece), Summa 112 (Spain), Sanitätspolizei Bern (Switzerland), Johanniter Österreich (Austria). analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: preliminary results indicate limitations regarding realism. participants described need train environment accurately represents what they might amidst site. This included recreation environmental dangers had taken into consideration before approaching also importance realistic representations injuries reactions victims during limited possibilities provide corresponds set lead feeling less prepared incident. Conclusion: Medical responders’ for increased realism deserves attention. solutions could potentially needs consideration. How degree Virtual or Mixed Reality based platforms affects perception among warrant further research.