(5) Implementing an Obstetric Simulation Training Protocol in a Critical Access Hospital

Abstract: Because critical access hospital emergency department nurses can face obstetrical emergencies, a simulation training protocol was implemented to improve nurse’s knowledge, skills, and self-confidence to improve patient quality of care and safety, thus ultimately having an impact on decreasing maternal mortality rates. The sample consisted of 16 participants including nurses, a physician, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics. Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert Theory was the theoretical framework used for this project as the simulation training protocol is a new concept being used to improve knowledge of nurses at the project implementation site. Does implementation of a simulation training protocol improve nurses’ knowledge, skills, and self-confidence? A self-confidence and competence assessment was given prior to participation in the simulation and following participation in the simulation to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-simulation data. In addition, review of the National League for Nursing Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning tool data was done to determine the overall success of implementing a simulation training protocol at the project site. A self-confidence and competence assessment was given prior to participation in the simulation and following participation in the simulation to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-simulation data. In addition, review of the National League for Nursing Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning tool data was done to determine the overall success of implementing a simulation training protocol at the project site.