Utilizing simulation technology for competency skills assessment and a comparison of traditional methods of training to simulation-based training.
BACKGROUND
The respiratory care department of one campus within our health system evaluated simulation-based medical education for training and competency evaluation of the mini bronchoalveolar lavage (mini-BAL) procedure, with an emphasis on patient safety and procedure performance standards.


METHODS
Training and competency evaluation occurred in 4 phases. In phase one, 24 staff respiratory therapists (RTs) were randomly chosen and individually underwent a simulation-based test of their mini-BAL performance, using a patient-simulator mannequin. Their performance on this test reflected the effectiveness of traditional training methods. In phase two, 83 staff RTs were given unlimited access to a Web-based curriculum on mini-BAL, including a video of a mini-BAL. They then took 2 tests: one online Web-based test, then a patient-simulator test. In phase three, the same 83 RTs attended a workshop that used the patient simulator for training and practice, then were re-evaluated with the patient-simulator test. Phase four was another simulator-based re-evaluation, 90 days after phase three, to study skills retention.


RESULTS
The mean scores were: phase one 73 +/- 10%, phase two 77 +/- 11%, phase three 95 +/- 5% (p < 0.01), phase four 92 +/- 8%.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest that employing simulation technology within a comprehensive departmental program can enhance staff training.
Tuttle
Raymond P
RP
Department of Respiratory Care, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
Cohen
Mark H
MH
Augustine
Albert J
AJ
Novotny
Dana F
DF
Delgado
Edgar
E
Dongilli
Thomas A
TA
Lutz
John W
JW
DeVita
Michael A
MA
D018893:Bronchoalveolar Lavage / Q000451:nursing*; D002983:Clinical Competence; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000379:methods*; D010414:Pennsylvania; D012124:Respiratory Care Units