Approaches to neonatal intubation training: A scoping review

Neonatal intubation is a lifesaving skill that a variety of clinicians need to establish as it can be required anywhere babies are born or hospitalised and cannot depend on the immediate availability of an experienced senior clinician. However, neonatal intubation is complex and risky, requiring technical and non-technical skill competence. Studies report that rates of successful neonatal intubation by junior clinicians are low, providing a mandate to examine the best methods to improve skill acquisition, retention, and transfer.

We utilised PRISMA-ScR methodology to capture the range of training approaches in the simulation and clinical settings, and to assess the range of technical and non-technical skill outcome measures that were used in the included studies. Databases were searched from inception to August 2024 to identify studies reporting outcomes for medical practitioners-in-training, nurses, and nurse practitioners. Identified studies meeting inclusion criteria underwent data charting with study characteristics tabulated.

Twenty-six studies (involving 1449 participants) were included. Training methodology was diverse and included self-directed learning, didactic education, demonstration, simulation-based training (SBT), instructor feedback, debriefing and supervised clinical practice. Most of the studies (96 %) used multiple training methods with education and SBT most frequently used. Thirteen studies reported outcomes in clinical settings, including seven that demonstrated changes in technical skills following education and SBT. Two studies that assessed transfer of skills failed to show successful transfer from simulation to a clinical setting. Two articles reported the transfer of skills between direct and video laryngoscope devices. Only one study evaluated skill retention (at 6-9 months) but did not demonstrate proficiency after initial training or at follow up. No studies described the effects of training on non-technical skills.

No included studies or combination of studies seems likely to provide a high-certainty evidence-basis for optimal training methodology. Results suggested using a training bundle including education, SBT and supervision. Knowledge gaps remain, including the most effective methodology for non-technical skill training. In addition, the evidence of technical skill retention beyond the immediate training episode, and transfer to a variety of clinical environments is very limited. Given the importance of successful neonatal intubation, more research in these areas is justified.