Doctor of Nursing Practice Practice Improvement Project: A Simulation-Based Emergency Preparedness Program in Immediate Care

Abstract

This practice improvement project was aimed at implementing a simulation-based education program at an immediate care clinic to better prepare staff for emergency situations and to determine whether simulation-based training could positively impact the confidence of participating staff members. Six staff members participated in a 2-phase program. The first phase included an educational component with practice mock code scenarios, whereas the second phase consisted of a spontaneous mock code drill 2 weeks later. Results revealed significant differences in participants’ overall reported comfort and confidence levels (percentages) in performing during a medical emergency pre- and postprogram. In addition, when individual skills were evaluated, there was a significant increase in participants’ comfort in initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), confidence in performing bag-to-mouth ventilation, and confidence in following basic life support guidelines during emergency situations. Findings suggest that a simulation-based learning program in immediate care can enhance the confidence of staff members in responding to emergent situations.