How to Prepare for the Oslo Advanced Trauma Course

The Oslo Advanced Trauma Course (OATC) is a flagship offering from Oslo Akuttmedisinsk Studentforening, designed to equip future emergency physicians with comprehensive trauma management skills. Proper preparation ensures you absorb the material, perform confidently, and network effectively.

1. Review the Course Syllabus Early

Download the official syllabus from our website and highlight the core topics: primary survey, hemorrhage control, thoracic injuries, and damage‑control surgery.

Action Items

Create a personal checklist of topics you feel less comfortable with.
Allocate 30 minutes each day to review related journal articles.
Bookmark key guidelines (e.g., ATLS, European Trauma Course).

2. Brush Up on Anatomy and Physiology

A solid grasp of thoracic and abdominal anatomy speeds up decision‑making during simulations.

Study Resources

Use the 3D anatomy app “Complete Anatomy” for interactive reviews.
Read the chapter on “Trauma Pathophysiology” from “Current Surgical Therapy”.
Watch the YouTube series “Trauma Anatomy Quick Review”.

3. Practice Basic Skills Ahead of Time

Hands‑on proficiency with airway devices, tourniquets, and wound packs will make complex scenarios feel manageable.

Quick Drills

Set up a 15‑minute daily simulation station at the student lab.
Partner with a fellow student to practice rapid sequence intubation (RSI) on a manikin.
Run a mock “stop‑the‑bleed” scenario using a limb tourniquet trainer.

4. Familiarize Yourself with the Simulation Environment

Our training facility mirrors a real emergency department. Arriving early to explore the layout helps reduce anxiety.

What to Look For

Location of the trauma bay, equipment carts, and medication stations.
How to access the digital patient monitor and electronic record.
Emergency exit routes and safety equipment.

5. Prepare Mentally and Physically

Trauma training can be intense. Ensure you are well‑rested, hydrated, and have a nutritious meal before the course.

Pre‑Course Checklist

Get at least 7 hours of sleep the night before.
Pack a small bag with water, a snack, and a notebook.
Bring a spare set of scrubs and comfortable shoes.

6. Network with Peers and Instructors

Building relationships early creates opportunities for future collaboration and mentorship.

Networking Tips

Introduce yourself to the course instructors during the welcome session.
Exchange contact information with at least two classmates.
Join the closed Facebook group for OATC alumni to stay updated on resources.

7. Post‑Course Follow‑Up

Learning doesn’t stop when the course ends. Review your performance notes, watch recorded simulation videos, and schedule a debrief with a mentor.

Take the next step – sign up for the upcoming Oslo Advanced Trauma Course on our course page and start your preparation today.