The FIRST²ACT simulation program improves nursing practice in a rural Australian hospital

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Simulation
• Nursing Practice Improvement
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Early detection of patient deterioration is crucial in acute care settings.
• Simulation-based training can enhance clinical skills and improve patient outcomes.
• Rural hospitals face unique challenges in providing continuous, high-quality patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the FIRST(2) ACT simulation program.
• To assess the program's impact on nursing observations and patient care practices.
• To measure changes in nursing interventions related to patient deterioration in a rural Australian hospital.

Main Methods:

• An interrupted time series analysis was employed.
• The study was conducted in a rural Australian hospital setting.
• Registered nurses on an acute medical/surgical ward participated in the FIRST(2) ACT program.

Main Results:

• 34 nurses participated, representing 83% of eligible staff.
• Statistically significant improvements were observed in the frequency of nursing observations (P=0.009) and pain score charting (P=0.003).
• No significant improvement was noted in oxygen therapy administration (P=0.143).

Conclusions:

• The FIRST(2) ACT simulation program demonstrated a positive impact on specific nursing practices.
• The program was associated with measurable improvements in nursing observations and pain documentation.
• Further research may be needed to optimize simulation programs for all aspects of patient care, such as oxygen therapy.