Communicating out loud: Midwifery students' experiences of a simulation exercise for neonatal resuscitation. (March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carolan-Olah, Mary; Kruger, Gina; Brown, Vera; Lawton, Felicity; Mazzarino, Melissa; Vasilevski, Vidanka
• Is Part Of: Nurse education in practice. Volume 29(2018)
• Page Start: 8
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2018-03
• Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Education, Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Study and teaching; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 610.73071
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2017.10.027
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-5953

Abstract

Abstract: Midwifery students feel unprepared to deal with commonly encountered emergencies, such as neonatal resuscitation. Clinical simulation of emergencies may provide a safe forum for students to develop necessary skills. A simulation exercise, for neonatal resuscitation, was developed and evaluated using qualitative methods. Pre and post-simulation questions focussed on student confidence and knowledge of resuscitation. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Pre-simulation questions revealed that most students considered themselves not very confident/unsure about their level of confidence in undertaking neonatal resuscitation. Most correctly identified features of the neonate requiring resuscitation. Post-simulation, students indicated that their confidence and knowledge of neonatal resuscitation had improved. Themes included: gaining confidence; understanding when to call for help; understanding the principles of resuscitation; tailoring simulation/education approaches to student needs. Students benefits included improved knowledge, confidence and skills. Participants unanimously suggested a program of simulation exercises, over a longer period of time, to reinforce knowledge and confidence gains. Ideally, students would like to actively participate in the simulation, rather than observe.