Self-perceived impact of simulation-based training on the management of real-life obstetrical emergencies

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2011

Authors

Reynolds A (Author) FMUP; Diogo Ayres de Campos (Author) FMUP; Lobo, M (Author) Other

Journal

Title: European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

Vol. 159

Pages: 72-76

ISSN: 0301-2115

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 27 Citations

Scopus - 26 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-JV4

DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2011.07.022

Abstract (EN): Objective: To evaluate the self-perceived impact of attending a simulation-based training course on the management of real-life obstetrical emergencies. Study design: A prospective follow-up study was conducted. Obstetric nurses and obstetricians (n = 54) from a tertiary care university hospital participated in a simulation-based training course for the management of four obstetric emergencies. One year after the last session of the course, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire evaluating the self-perceived impact it had on their knowledge, technical skills, and teamwork skills during experienced real-life situations. A five-point Likert grading scale was used. The chi(2) test with one degree of freedom or the Fisher's exact test were used to compare groups of participants. The t-test for independent samples was used to compare mean scores between groups. Results: A total of 46 healthcare professionals answered the questionnaire: 27 obstetricians and 19 obstetric nurses. Of these, 87% perceived an improvement (scores 4 or 5) in their knowledge and skills during real emergencies. Obstetric nurses expressed a significantly higher improvement than obstetricians in their ability to diagnose or be aware of obstetrical emergencies (p = 0.002), in their technical skills (p = 0.024), and in their ability to deal with teamwork related issues (p = 0.005). Participants who had experienced in real-life situations all four simulated scenarios rated the impact of training significantly higher than others (p = 0.049). and also reported a better improvement in their knowledge of management guidelines (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Healthcare professionals who participated in a simulation-based training course in obstetrical emergencies perceived a substantial improvement in their knowledge and skills when witnessing real-life emergencies. Improvements seem to be particularly relevant for obstetric nurses and for those who witness all trained obstetrical emergencies.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 5