Rana Sharara-Chami
American University of Beirut Medical center
Title: In-situ Simulation for Latent Threat Identification in the Emergency Department (ED)
Biography
Biography: Rana Sharara-Chami
Abstract
The ED is a popular site for in-situ simulation. Under stress medical professionals can deviate from clinical guidelines and policies even if they know of their existence. The objectives of the study are (1) to evaluate the effects of in-situ simulation in identifying knowledge/application gaps related to established protocols in the ED at AUBMC and, (2) the effects of in-situ simulation on adherence to protocols and improved teamwork by avoidance of latent threats. Validated crisis resource management (CRM) criteria will be measured via the validated Anesthetists Non-Technical Skills scale (ANTS)5. A needs assessment survey in the ED showed that most participants were familiar with high-fidelity simulation (55%), and want it in the curriculum especially in-situ (68%). There was a perceived knowledge gap across all participants in communication skills (p 0.000) and dealing with difficult families (p 0.003). 55% of participants were aware of the existence of ED protocols, but 7% complied. We propose using in-situ simulation in the ED on a bi-monthly basis to identify latent threats related to failed adherence to guidelines and system errors. We will choose well-known protocols and run an announced simulation scenario in the ED followed by debriefing. Behavioral patterns will be recorded and participants will complete post-simulation surveys. 2 weeks later, the same scenario will be repeated unannounced with the same participants. Behaviors will be compared to the first announced scenario on the same scale (ANTS). We expect significant improvement in adherence to protocols and behavioral changes resulting in better teamwork.