Optimization of Pediatric Medical Emergency Training (PedMET) Program for Pharmacists in the Inpatient Setting

It is perceived by many pharmacists that inadequate training and the resulting lack of confidence hinder participation in medical emergencies. There is insufficient information detailing training programs for pharmacists responding to pediatric medical emergencies. The primary objective of this study was to compare competency scores pre and post participation in the pediatric medical emergency training (PedMET) program. The secondary objectives included comparing confidence and knowledge for participation in pediatric medical emergencies, knowledge of resources and error prevention tools, description of the median time to prepare medications, and the most common errors that occurred during simulation.

A comprehensive didactic lecture and simulation-based training were designed and contained pre- and post-competencies to assess pharmacists' knowledge related to pediatric medical emergencies. Self-assessments were included to determine pharmacists' confidence levels in knowledge and preparation of medications. Feedback was solicited from participants to identify areas of improvement for the program. Standards for QUality Improvement Reporting Excellence (SQUIRE) 2.0 was used to report findings.

Twenty-nine pharmacists of diverse training (e.g., residency vs nonresidency) and experience levels completed the program between July 2021 and March 2023. Competency scores improved from a median of 86% to 97% (p value < 0.001). Significant improvement was detected in pharmacists' confidence in their ability to prepare complex medications during medical emergencies (p value = 0.001).

Following the implementation of didactic and simulation-based training, pharmacists' knowledge and confidence increased. Departments of pharmacy should consider implementing pharmacist--specific training programs for all pharmacists who respond to pediatric medical emergencies.