Neonatal Transport Ventilation: Simulation to Improve Knowledge and Skills

Neonatal transport is a frequent activity in most tertiary and regional perinatal centers. Neonatal transport teams serve as mobile intensive care units and are equipped with specialized incubators that have built-in ventilators that can provide several levels of support. In our institution, we aim to educate all neonatal transport providers, including neonatal-perinatal fellows, neonatal intensive care unit-dedicated advanced practice providers, and neonatal intensive care unit-dedicated registered respiratory therapists, on transport ventilation management and troubleshooting, utilizing simulation to optimize patient care during transport.

We developed scenarios based on the equipment used at our institution: an AirBorne Voyager transport incubator with a built-in Crossvent 2i+ infant ventilator, AirBorne TXP-2D high-frequency ventilator, and AeroNOx inhaled nitric oxide system (International Biomedical). Equipment and troubleshooting knowledge were assessed via knowledge tests prior to and at intervals after simulation scenario completion. We performed paired t tests to analyze change in test scores at each time point postsimulation compared to presimulation. Facilitated debriefing and a survey elicited feedback on learner confidence and comfort.

Ten learners participated in the simulations and completed the knowledge assessments. At all postsimulation time points, mean knowledge scores showed statistically significant improvements compared to presimulation scores. Feedback from learners on confidence in their skills and comfort with the equipment was positive.

Neonatal transport team ventilator knowledge and troubleshooting skills have improved after instituting this semiannual simulation training.