frequently asked questions
This page is intended as a checklist for those intending to set up a PTC course in their area. If you don’t already have PTC in your country or region, scroll down to read the section ‘Introducing PTC to a new country’.
Step 1: Identify a Local Course Coordinator
Identify a Local Course Coordinator – ideally someone with access to phone/fax/email. This person is responsible for liaising with the Regional PTC Coordinator and PTC Head Office to organise the course. If you are unsure who your Country Coordinator is, please contact us to find out.
Step 2: Arrange a date for the course
Dates should be arranged at least 6 months in advance, 9 months if possible. The PTC Foundation course is 2 days long; however the proven ‘5 day model’ is usually employed, consisting of a 2 day Foundation course, a 1 day Instructors course, followed by a further 2 day Foundation course led by the newly trained Instructors.
Step 3: Identify funding/budget
The Primary Trauma Care Foundation is a non-profit organisation; course instructors are not paid a salary or an honorarium. However, course participants are usually asked to make a small voluntary contribution (appropriate to the locality in which the course is run) towards running costs.
Step 4: Invite participants
The number of candidates on the course should be limited to between 16 and 20. It is important that no more than twenty participants are admitted as this dilutes the time available in the practical sessions.
Step 5: Identify suitable PTC Instructors
There should be a minimum of 4 instructors for every 20 participants and PTC will assist in identifying other instructors to support the course.
Step 6: Arrange a suitable venue
You will need to arrange catering for the duration of the course plus if possible, a digital projector. If this is not available then a flip chart or blackboard. If no mannequins are available, then you could ask for volunteers from those participating.
Step 7: Check for course materials
Check you have course materials available in the local language, and arrange for translation if needed (this usually takes around 6 to 9 months).
Step 8: Publicise the Course
Inform local newspapers/media of the PTC course taking place, and encourage them to give it publicity! You should also send us the course details here.
Step 9: Wider Strategy
Each PTC course should be part of a wider strategy for the running of future PTC courses in the area.
