@article{ref1,
title="Can virtual reality be used to conduct mass prophylaxis clinic training? A pilot program",
journal="Biosecurity and bioterrorism",
year="2008",
author="Yellowlees, Peter and Cook, James N. and Marks, Shayna L. and Wolfe, Daniel and Mangin, Elanor",
volume="6",
number="1",
pages="36-44",
abstract="OBJECTIVE: To create and evaluate a pilot bioterrorism defense training environment using virtual reality technology. METHODS: The present pilot project used Second Life, an internet-based virtual world system, to construct a virtual reality environment to mimic an actual setting that might be used as a Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) distribution site for northern California in the event of a bioterrorist attack. Scripted characters were integrated into the system as mock patients to analyze various clinic workflow scenarios. Users tested the virtual environment over two sessions. RESULTS: Thirteen users who toured the environment were asked to complete an evaluation survey. Respondents reported that the virtual reality system was relevant to their practice and had potential as a method of bioterrorism defense training. CONCLUSIONS: Computer simulations of bioterrorism defense training scenarios are feasible with existing personal computer technology. The use of internet-connected virtual environments holds promise for bioterrorism defense training. Recommendations are made for public health agencies regarding the implementation and benefits of using virtual reality for mass prophylaxis clinic training.<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1538-7135",
doi="10.1089/bsp.2007.0038",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1089/bsp.2007.0038"
}