Improving Intubation Success in Pediatric and Neonatal Transport Using Simulation

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Pediatric Critical Care
• Neonatal Intensive Care

Background:

• Pediatric and neonatal retrieval services have lower first-pass intubation rates compared to adult services.
• This disparity may stem from reduced practice opportunities in pediatric and neonatal populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the first-pass intubation rate without adverse events.
• To achieve this by implementing daily intubation simulation training.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study was conducted on a mixed neonatal and pediatric retrieval service.
• Medical staff participated in daily simulated intubations, utilizing neonatal and pediatric intubation checklists.
• Questionnaires were used to collect data on retrieval intubations.

Main Results:

• First-pass intubation rates improved from 58% to 74% overall.
• Neonatal first-pass intubation rates increased significantly from 59% to 78%.
• No severe adverse events were recorded; minor events decreased with simulation.

Conclusions:

• Simulation training is an effective method for improving intubation skills in retrieval settings.
• It supports neonatal and pediatric intubation training amidst decreasing procedural frequency.