Preparedness for infective emergencies: a TNA among Italian healthcare professionals

Abstract Background In the field of Public Health, continuing medical education is crucial for keeping healthcare professionals prepared. Training needs assessment (TNA) helps providers, like the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), align education with workforce needs. This study aimed to assess training needs related to emergency preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks among healthcare workers across Italy. Methods A mixed-method TNA design was adopted. First, a literature review was conducted to identify key frameworks and define a preliminary set of knowledge domains. A panel of experts was then engaged via an online Nominal Group Technique to prioritise the areas. Based on this input, an ad hoc questionnaire was developed to assess: (1) self-perceived knowledge; (2) training needs by subtopic; and (3) attitudes and practices. The survey was administered via EDUISS (ISS e-learning platform) from Jan 28 to Feb 28, 2025. Results A total of 1,898 health professionals completed the questionnaire. Most respondents were female (72%) and nurses (52%), with a median age of 51 years (IQR 40-75). While 51% had already completed a training course on this topic, 48% reported that infectious disease preparedness was not part of their daily work. Nevertheless, 56% strongly agreed that all healthcare professionals should have a basic understanding of emergency preparedness, regardless of their role. The highest priority topic was ‘risk management’. The lowest self-perceived knowledge was ‘monitoring and evaluation frameworks for assessing the impact of emergency response’. ‘ Emergency management phases’ was rated as the most useful topic and showed the largest gap in perceived knowledge. Conclusions Findings will inform the development of a new e-learning course on infectious disease emergency preparedness, with a specific focus on the different phases of emergency management, risk assessment and risk communication identified as both highly useful and critically under-addressed. Key messages • Training needs exist both for professionals involved and not directly involved in infectious disease preparedness. • A targeted e-learning course will address key gaps such as emergency phases and risk management.