214 High Fidelity Simulation and Burn Education

L M Hanson; T G Kroschel; K I Kipper; W J Mohr

doi:10.1093/jbcr/iry006.136

Abstract Introduction The evolving world of burn care presents unique challenges when creating education for nurses. The use of high fidelity simulation is one way to meet that challenge. By collaborating with the organizational Simulation Center, we address high risk situations, enhance communication between nurses and physicians, and focus on specific patient needs in hopes of improving nursing knowledge and skills. Methods Fluid resuscitation of adult and pediatric burn patients was chosen as an area of focus based on physician and nursing input. The burn physicians, nurse educator, and simulation educators collaborated to create a simulation-based course. In addition, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, dieticians and other members of the interdisciplinary team were consulted. Class sizes were kept small to ensure each attendee participated in an active role. Each simulation consisted of 2–3 participants completing a 10 minute scenario followed by debrief. The debrief was a reflective discussion which included a focus on specific topics facilitated by the simulation and burn educators as well as a Burn Attending. Surveys were sent to attendees to examine the effectiveness of the content following class completion. Results Survey results showed participants found the use of simulation beneficial to their overall knowledge of complex burn patient management. Over 87% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they felt better prepared to care for the complex burn patient, including an improved understanding of initiation and management of burn resuscitation per hospital protocol. Over 90% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their ability to perform specific skills related to the management of the complex adult burn patient improved, whereas 83% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their skills related to the management of the pediatric burn patient improved. Additionally, burn physicians saw improvements in charting accuracy and adherence to the organization’s resuscitation protocol in patient care situations. Conclusions The classes enhanced nursing preparedness and skill level when caring for a complex adult and/or pediatric burn patient. A significant advantage to this type of education was the involvement of the burn physician during the scenario debrief. Future classes will focus on low frequency, high risk situations as identified by nurses and physicians. Applicability of Research to Practice The use of high fidelity simulation has been proven effective in many domains of health care. It allows nurses to practice and improve upon their skills in a safe environment which translates to their daily practice. Engaging multiple disciplines in the creation and execution of the scenarios enriches the multidisciplinary approach, which is vital to the short and long term care of burn survivors.

214 High Fidelity Simulation and Burn Education

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