29 Development of a hospital-wide point-of-care simulation programme. (17th November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lobo, CA; McNutt, A; Turner, D; Williams, R; McIndoe, A; Freshwater-Turner, D
• Is Part Of: BMJ simulation & technology enhanced learning. Volume 2(2016)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A31
• Page End: A32
• Publication Date: 2016-11-17
• Subjects: Medicine -- Simulation methods -- Periodicals; Medical innovations -- Periodicals; 610.113
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjstel-2016-000158.81
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-6697

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Point-of-care simulation is a team-based training technique for healthcare teams in their own workplace. It ensures participants are familiar with the learning environment, and allows them to utilise equipment and resources which would be available to them during their normal clinical practice. We aimed to develop a point-of-care simulation programme encompassing all acute clinical areas of a busy university hospital. Method: Sessions were delivered with a Laerdal SimMan manikin and monitoring. The primary outcome measures were the effects of training on participants including the impact on confidence in assessing and managing acutely unwell patients. The secondary outcome measure was an assessment of system competence and identification of any latent errors. Results: In the first 6 months, we managed to start monthly simulation sessions in 16 of 18 acute clinical areas of the hospital. During this time, we delivered simulation teaching sessions to 417 staff members, and received feedback from 47% of these staff members. From the primary outcome measures, participant confidence in the assessment of the acutely unwell patient increased from 3.4 to 4.2 out of 5 (p < 0.005), while confidence in the management of acutely unwell patients increased from 3.2 to 4.1 out of 5 (p < 0.005). During this time, we identified 11 latent system errors, which were all reported and have since been rectified. Conclusions: Point-of-care simulation teaching sessions are an effective way to identify and correct system errors without exposing patients to harm. These sessions can occur during normal working days and have been demonstrated to improve staff confidence in their management of acutely unwell patients.