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

Aim: 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.

Design: Quasi-experimental mixed methods using co-production.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Patient or public contribution: Consumers participated in the steering group overseeing the study and in the expert panel who reviewed the education package and clinical scenarios.