Development, implementation, and evaluation of a simulation-based educational curriculum for pediatric hospitalists.

Abstract

Minimal published simulation-based educational training exists for practicing pediatric hospitalists. Our aim was to determine specific pediatric hospital medicine (PHM) knowledge, skill, and competency needs aligned with our scope of practice and evaluate the impact of a simulation-based training curriculum. Baseline and post-training surveys were administered to 48 physicians providing self-ratings on a 5-point scale from Novice to Expert on published PHM competencies. Results were used to develop a targeted simulation curriculum. Participants were considered competent in a domain if their mean score was 3 or greater. We categorized participant responses to individual questions into nine domain scores on survey self-assessments. Score analysis was performed using the signed-rank test and McNemar's test. Post-training evaluations solicited curriculum acceptance and perceived clinical value. The baseline response rate was 98%and the post-training response rate was 85%. Areas with the lowest competency on baseline self-assessment included advanced airway management (38%), vascular access and emergency medications (38%), code cart skills (19%), team communication (51%), and medically complex care (49%). Post-training scores improved significantly for five of nine domains, with the largest gains in the "not competent" at baseline group. Percent competent (% with mean score >3) increased significantly in three domains (advanced airway management, code cart skills, and complex care). Participants rated educational sessions favorably (98%) and most (95%) reported using knowledge/skills learned for patient care. Baseline self-assessment results were instrumental in curriculum design. Post-training analysis revealed gains in multiple domains and identified opportunities for future interventions. Most hospitalists reported participation positively impacted patient care with high learner satisfaction.