Abstract O-53: THE IMPORTANCE OF SIMULATION TO TEST THE ADEQUACY OF SYSTEMS, PROCESSES AND PATIENT SAFETY MEASURES IN A NEW PAEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE UNIT

Abstract

Aims & Objectives: We used simulation and reflective practice to assess systems and processes of a new PICU prior to opening to identify latent threats to patient safety and process issues that could be a barrier to providing a high quality service Methods Setting: Large university hospital; establishment of PICU linked to a regional PICU Intervention: Programme of simulations and workshops with nursing and medical staff. Main outcomes: Identification of process issues, latent safety threats or problems in culture Results 6 lectures, 24 workshops, 1 off-site and 14 in-situ simulations were delivered over 4 weeks. In-situ simulations identified a number of areas for process improvement, latent patient safety threats, as well as important knowledge gaps in more junior staff members that are listed in the table. Process improvements and other solutions were developed in workshops and then re-tested in simulations. Importantly the programme allowed for development of a unit culture. Conclusions A programme of workshops, lectures and simulations tested, and re-tested, the readiness of systems and processes of a new PICU to ensure adequate patient safety. In-situ simulations were valuable in detecting areas for process improvement and latent safety threats.