Simulation for Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists: Common Pediatric Anesthesia Complications

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Education
• Pediatric Care

Background:

• Pediatric anesthesia poses higher risks for young patients, requiring specialized skills from student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs).
• SRNAs must gain experience with pediatric patients, facing potential stress due to the increased risks involved.
• Simulation offers a safe environment for SRNAs to develop and refine critical skills before real-world application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of high-fidelity pediatric anesthesia simulation on SRNAs' skills, knowledge, and self-confidence.
• To prepare SRNAs for managing common pediatric anesthesia complications, including airway obstruction, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, and bradycardia.
• To enhance SRNAs' competence in recognizing and treating critical events in pediatric anesthesia prior to their clinical rotation.

Main Methods:

• Twenty SRNAs participated in a high-fidelity pediatric anesthesia simulation before their clinical rotation.
• Participants completed surveys assessing self-confidence and ability to manage pediatric anesthesia complications at three intervals: pre-simulation, post-simulation, and post-rotation.
• Statistical analysis was used to determine the significance of changes in self-confidence and skill perception.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant improvement (P = .00) was observed in SRNAs' overall self-confidence in recognizing, treating, and managing common pediatric anesthesia complications post-simulation.
• The simulation experience positively impacted participants' perceived ability to handle critical pediatric anesthesia scenarios.
• Post-rotation surveys indicated sustained or improved confidence levels among participants.

Conclusions:

• High-fidelity simulation is an effective educational tool for enhancing SRNAs' preparedness for pediatric anesthesia rotations.
• Simulation-based training significantly increases SRNAs' self-confidence in managing pediatric anesthesia emergencies.
• This approach contributes to improved patient safety by ensuring SRNAs are better equipped to handle pediatric anesthesia challenges.