Preparing ward nursing staff for more effective team involvement in a code blue (BLS/ALS) utilising high fidelity patient simulation (HFPS)

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Knowledge, skills and confidence decay have been identified as significant factors impacting on the effectiveness of emergency calls in the general ward environment. Ward nurses indicate they do not feel confident in interacting with the Resuscitation Team and feel underprepared in dealing with resuscitation equipment. This paper describes the development of and participants’ perceptions of a cardiac arrest in a Ward Nurses Study Day that focuses on knowledge needed, clinical practice required and how the nurse can be an effective team player, using focused simulation technology and application of acute crisis resource management principles. Materials and methods: The education preparation includes preparatory tutorials, followed by interactive clinical skills stations; orientation to the simulation environment and culminating in a scenario-based, team focused interactive HFPS. This construct has been developed to encourage a more effective retention of the ward nurses’ knowledge, skills and confidence levels for subsequent involvement in a resuscitation emergency. Participants completed a 13 item standardised course evaluation at the end of the course to examine their perceptions of the education provided. Results: Participants (n = 88) indicated that the study days were purpose constructed, the information provided relevant, pitched appropriately while the skills stations helped increase knowledge and skills about and handling of resuscitation equipment. The simulation sessions were powerful, dynamic activities that facilitated experiential learning, team activity acquisition, behaviour modification and positive self-perceptions. Conclusions: The use of HFPS during a resuscitation study day has the potential to encourage confidence in clinical practice, improve team activities, thus facilitating increased positive patient outcomes during a subsequent emergency.