Effectiveness of a simulation-based educational program in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care
• Nursing Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Effective resuscitation skills training is crucial for optimal staff performance in high-acuity pediatric cardiac intensive care units (ICUs).
• Traditional training methods face challenges due to time and logistical constraints in busy clinical environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an effective and efficient simulation training program for ICU nursing staff to enhance patient resuscitation skills.

Main Methods:

• A simulation training program was implemented for all ICU nursing staff over one year.
• The program included mock resuscitation scenarios, role-playing, video review, and group debriefing.
• Participants completed pre-training, post-training, and 1-year follow-up surveys assessing self-reported knowledge, skill, and comfort.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant improvements were observed in self-reported knowledge, skills, and comfort related to patient resuscitation post-training and at 1 year.
• Nursing staff reported simulation training as helpful, positively impacting their confidence and abilities.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is an effective method for enhancing resuscitation skills and confidence among pediatric cardiac ICU nurses.
• The program demonstrated positive and sustained impact on nursing staff's perceived competence in patient resuscitation.