[Project to Improve FloTrac Cognition and Skill Accuracy in Nurses Working in the Intensive Care Unit]

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Medical Device Technology
• Nursing Education

Context:

• The FloTrac system is crucial for hemodynamic monitoring in intensive care units (ICUs).
• Inadequate nurse proficiency with FloTrac poses risks to patient safety.
• Standardized training is needed to optimize the use of advanced hemodynamic monitoring devices.

Purpose:

• To enhance FloTrac cognitive and skill accuracy among ICU nurses.
• To reduce the time required for FloTrac system setup.
• To improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of hemodynamic monitoring.

Summary:

• A multifaceted educational intervention was implemented, including a memorable formula, video tutorials, manuals, and reminder cards.
• Regular quality monitoring and educational training sessions were conducted.
• The project successfully increased FloTrac cognitive accuracy from 57.6% to 90.4% and skill accuracy from 73.3% to 99.7%.

Impact:

• Nurses demonstrated significant improvements in professional knowledge and practical skills related to FloTrac.
• The project reduced FloTrac installation time from 8 minutes 38 seconds to 5 minutes 42 seconds.
• Enhanced nurse competency facilitates efficient hemodynamic data acquisition, leading to more accurate and timely patient treatment.