Multidisciplinary, In Situ Simulation Improves Experienced Caregiver Confidence With High-Risk Pediatric Emergencies.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2021

Publication Title

Pediatric emergency care

Keywords

washington; seattle; swedish; Caregivers; Child; Emergencies; Emergency Medical Services; Emergency Service, Hospital; Emergency Treatment; Humans; Simulation Training

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Emergency department (ED) caregivers have reported feeling uncomfortable performing emergency pediatric procedures, likely because of either a lack of training or infrequent exposure to these events. To address these gaps, ongoing education for experienced ED caregivers must aim to improve caregiver confidence with high-risk, low-volume pediatric emergency care. This study used multidisciplinary, in situ simulations to facilitate improved caregiver confidence when treating pediatric emergencies in an ED setting.

METHODS: Two-hour pediatric code blue simulations were held in 7 EDs throughout the Seattle, Washington, metropolitan area. Questionnaire data were collected from 353 simulation participants (60% nurses, 19.5% ED technicians, 14% ED physicians; median team size = 5) via pre simulation and post simulation surveys assessing confidence and understanding regarding interventions/treatments, standard protocols, culture of safety behavior, and team members' roles/responsibilities. Paired t tests were used to analyze changes in self-reported confidence.

RESULTS: Confidence improved across all questions (37%-57% of participants reported good/complete confidence pre simulation, improving 94%-98% post simulation; P < 0.00001 for all). Participants cited learning equipment location/use (37%), hands-on practice (32%), and discussion (22%) as the most helpful aspects of the simulations. Identified changes to practice made post simulation included more effective communication (18%) and utilization of a pediatric emergency drug sheet (13%).

CONCLUSIONS: Multidisciplinary, in situ simulation improves experienced ED caregivers' confidence with pediatric emergencies in an ED setting. These findings suggest that investment in simulation-based education may improve clinical care and quality and safety improvement plans for the treatment of pediatric emergencies in general EDs.

Clinical Institute

Women & Children

Department

Pediatrics

Department

Emergency Medicine

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