Implementing Teamstepps in A Pediatric Operating Room Suite to Improve Communication and Mutual Support/Teamwork Using Simulation Observation Testing As A Continuous Improvement Patient Safety Project

Title : Implementing Teamstepps in A Pediatric Operating Room Suite to Improve Communication and Mutual Support/Teamwork Using Simulation Observation Testing As A Continuous Improvement Patient Safety Project

Abstract:

Introduction/Background:

The purpose of this continuous improvement project was to assess the current state of teamwork and communication skill among the operating room team, then provide an evidence-based patient safety program training session to improve those constructs.

Methods:

The project design included a pre- and post-simulation observation assessment with a high fidelity mannequin as the OR team engaged in a validated true life scenario. The intervention was done using the TeamSTEPPS modules and a post education evaluation was done with the TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ). After simulation sessions post intervention, a measure of that experience was done with the Satisfaction in Simulation Experience (SSES) tool. Three months later a short survey (T-TAQ 2) was done to assess sustainability

Results:

T-TAQ scores were significantly positive from the anesthesia team as compared to the OR team (p=0.227). The results of the SSES tool indicated a high percentage (98%-100%) of participants agreed that the experience was satisfactory. The T-TAQ 2 revealed 66% of the participants indicated improvement in communication and mutual support. Pre- intervention scores for communication were 65%, post 89% and mutual support was 67% pre and 90% post.

Discussion/Conclusion:

The main gain from this intervention was three-fold.  First, this provided an opportunity for the anesthesia team to practice their new skills in a safe environment for patients. Secondly, it provided the simulation excellence team an evaluation of their sessions with a validated, reliable tool. Lastly, it inspired spread of this patient safety program within the organization.

Biography:

Dr. Carlos A. Archilla is the Chairman of the Anesthesiology Department at the Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Florida, USA. He graduated from the University Of Puerto Rico School of Medicine and completed his training in Anesthesia, Pediatric Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. He is an Associate Professor at Florida State University and the University of Central Florida, College of Medicine. He is a frequent presenter and expert panelist at national and international meetings. He is a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the European Society of Pediatric Anesthesia.