Use of in situ simulation to improve team performance and utilization of a rapid sequence intubation checklist

Background: Intubation checklists have emerged as tools to reduce adverse events and improve efficiency during rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in pediatric emergency departments (PEDs). This study aimed to use multidisciplinary simulation (SIM) training as an educational tool to improve PED team performance during RSI scenarios through utilization of an RSI checklist.

Methods: We created a checklist modeled after previously published PED checklists. PED multidisciplinary teams participated in video-recorded SIM training sessions involving a scenario requiring intubation three times, first without interruption then while receiving our intervention of rapid-cycle deliberate practice (RCDP) debriefing focusing on checklist utilization and team dynamics. Learners went through the scenario once more uninterrupted to apply learned skills. Team performance was evaluated via video review using the Simulation Team Assessment Tool (STAT) focusing on airway management and human factors sections. Scores were compared before and after intervention along with pre- and postintervention surveys.

Results: A total of 483 learners participated in 64 SIM training sessions, 44 of whom met inclusion criteria and were included for data analysis. Scores increased postintervention for airway management, human factors and in total. Least-squares mean differences for total, airway, and human factors scores were 9.55 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.24-11.85), 4.22 (95% CI 2.91-5.52), and 5.33 (95% CI 3.86-6.8), respectively, which was statistically significant with p-value of <0.001 across all categories. Surveys demonstrated improved role understanding and checklist utilization comfort postintervention.

Conclusions: This study supports the benefit of multidisciplinary SIM training with RCDP-style methodology as an educational method for improving airway management, teamwork skills, and RSI checklist utilization for PED staff. Incorporation of additional maintenance SIM sessions for ongoing education is likely to be further beneficial and would allow evaluation of degradation of skills over time following initial training.