Introduction of emergency simulation scenarios for ACNP students

Introduction of emergency simulation scenarios for ACNP students Background: Appropriate clinical decisions making in emergency situations is critical to enhance patient outcomes. Core Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) competencies require implementation of interventions to support the patient with a rapidly deteriorating physiologic condition. Developing this expertise within the acute care environment requires practice. Nurse Practitioner Education Initiative: ACNP students participated in simulation scenarios requiring rapid assessment and implementation of airway interventions. Students completed a pre-posttest multiple choice questionnaire on management of patients and a pre-post survey on competence and confidence in managing a patient experiencing acute airway distress. Students were divided into small groups and were assigned roles as members of the health care team caring for a rapidly changing patient condition. Collaboration and team development were emphasized. Simulations were recorded and reviewed during debriefing for the purpose of students identifying areas for potential growth. Simulation Objectives included: 1) Identification of signs and symptoms of an emergency situation; 2) Identification of signs of respiratory compromise; 3) Identification of conditions leading to decreased level of consciousness; 4) Demonstration of appropriate assessment and direct care for a patient experiencing an airway emergency situation; and 5) Demonstration of safe and appropriate management of a patient experiencing an emergency situation as a member of the health care team. Results: Twenty-six students completed the emergency simulation. Pre-post survey results demonstrated improved confidence in managing a patient experiencing acute airway distress or decompensation (p= 0.0001) and improved competence in managing a patient experiencing acute airway distress or decompensation (p=0.0003). The average post-test scores increased 20%. Implications for Nurse Practitioner Education and Practice: Simulation provides opportunities to create a multidisciplinary environment to improve team processes and communication.  Acute care nurse practitioner students’ confidence and competence in managing a patient experiencing an acute airway distress or decompensation can be increased through simulation. The outcomes of this experience provide validation for expansion of simulation in the ACNP program. Additionally, this program demonstrates how collaboration and clinical competencies can be enhanced – ultimately improving patient outcomes.