Review article: Use of the Team Emergency Assessment Measure in the rating of emergency teams' non‐technical skills: A mapping review

Abstract

The present study aims to explore the utility of the Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM) in relation to the enhancement of emergency team non‐technical skills based on research conducted over the last decade. In this mapping review, a citation mining process identified 22 primary studies for inclusion, published between 2012 and 2022. It provides outcome data on emergency teams' non‐technical skills following team training and/or real‐life patient emergencies. Emergency team studies related to resuscitation teams (adult, paediatric, newborn and obstetric cases) and medical emergency team (MET) management of patient deterioration. Team performance ratings varied, ranging from approximately 90% for experienced clinical teams down to 38% for students. Statistically significant improvements in performance were notable following training and/or repeated practice. Validity evidence, across 11 studies that provided change data described positive learning outcomes and moderate intervention effects. However, according to Kirkpatrick's model of educational evaluation the studies were limited to professional development phases of learning and immediate post‐training assessments rather than care quality improvement. The review highlights a lack of studies evidencing quality improvement or clinical impact such as change of patient care practice or health service performance. There is a need to conduct well‐designed studies that explore both technical and non‐technical skills of resuscitation teams and METs. Currently, non‐technical skills training and repeated performance evaluations using the TEAM contribute immensely to the proficiency of emergency teams.