Using clinical simulation to assess a new paediatric ESCALATION system education package: Empirical research mixed methods.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the suitability of an online education package to prepare health professionals to use a new paediatric early warning system. Quasi-experimental mixed methods using co-production. Participants completed the Package and participated in up to four clinical scenarios. Data were collected using self-report surveys, and during clinical scenarios; escalation of care, documentation, family involvement, communication handovers were assessed, and recorded debriefings were thematically analysed. Data were integrated using tabulated joint displays. Eleven nurses and three doctors were recruited from three mixed adult and paediatric hospitals. Following completion of the Package and clinical scenarios 13/14 (93%) participants agreed preparedness and confidence to use the ESCALATION System had increased. For 53% handovers, the communication framework was followed, for 79% charts, documentation was complete. Participants engaged with the parent (actor) for 97% scenario interactions. The Package was effective and participation in clinical scenarios appeared to enhance learning. Consumers participated in the steering group overseeing the study and in the expert panel who reviewed the education package and clinical scenarios.