The Particulars: ED physicians often experience challenges when managing critically ill children and may be uncomfortable treating this patient group. Participation in a simulation-based outreach curriculum focused on the care of critically ill infants may improve emergency providers’ knowledge in and comfort with treating these children.
Data Breakdown: For a study, emergency physicians took part in a 3.5-hour educational program based on abusive head trauma, pneumococcal sepsis, and congenital heart disease. Participants were evaluated for knowledge and comfort before and after the course. The average score on the pre-test was 40%, compared with 60% on the post-test. Comfort level scores also improved significantly after the intervention.
Take Home Pearl: Participating in a simulation-based outreach curriculum that focuses on care for critically ill infants appears to statistically increase comfort and knowledge in providing pediatric emergency care.
