Initial Test of Emergency Procedure Performance in Temporary Negative Pressure Isolation by Using Simulation Technologies

This study tested whether emergency care teams could still perform critical lifesaving procedures inside a temporary negative pressure isolation tent. Using simulation, the researchers found that teams completed key emergency actions in about the same amount of time inside and outside the tent. Performance improved more from practice than from the setting itself, suggesting the tent did not create a major operational barrier. Staff did report some challenges with comfort, communication, and access to equipment, but these did not significantly delay care. The findings suggest portable isolation tents can expand infectious disease surge capacity without seriously reducing emergency procedure performance.