Use of High-fidelity simulation training for radiology healthcare professionals in the management of acute medical emergencies

Abstract

Objectives: Life-threatening emergencies are relatively uncommon in the radiology department, but when encountered, require timely intervention. With an increasing number of critically unwell patients visiting the radiology department each year for both diagnostic and interventional procedures, it is vital that radiology staff are trained to provide basic resuscitation before further assistance arrives. Simulation training is a well-validated, effective method for rehearsing low frequency, high acuity events in a supportive and safe environment. The aim of our study was to investigate whether the introduction of a focussed, multidisciplinary simulation course would improve healthcare professional’s knowledge and confidence when managing common medical emergencies; including cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis and airway obstruction. Methods: A multidisciplinary group of radiology staff attended a dedicated simulation teaching course. Participants completed a pre- and post-test questionnaire which assessed a range of knowledge domains and their perceived confidence with dealing with the clinical scenarios. The delegates were then asked to repeat this questionnaire 6 months after taking part in the course to assess their retention of skills and knowledge. Results: Knowledge scores increased by a mean difference of 4 points (p < 0.001). The mean pre- and post-course perceived confidence scores were 4.4/10 and 8/10, respectively. Advances in knowledge: This study suggests that embedding simulation training into the radiology curriculum improves healthcare professional’s knowledge and perceived confidence when dealing with common medical emergencies. Although previous studies have looked at the use of simulation training for radiology trainees in the management of selected medical emergencies, to the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate these benefits across a range of clinical scenarios, within an interprofessional environment.

Effects of simulation-based education for neonatal resuscitation on medical students’ technical and non-technical skills

“…However, in the case of long-term follow-up (more than 6 months) after the SBE, there may be a deterioration in learners’ performance. Therefore, to develop actual clinical competence, it is important to continuously consolidate the acquired knowledge and clinical skills into practice and strengthen confidence [ 33 ].…”

Clinical governance implications of a Victorian coronial finding regarding contrast-related anaphylaxis for health services and private providers of radiology services

“…Similar findings have been reported in American and UK studies. 4,5 In 2021, The Australian Commission for Safety and Quality in Healthcare released its Acute Anaphylaxis Clinical Care Standard. 6 The first two quality statements focus on prompt recognition of anaphylaxis and immediate injection of intramuscular adrenaline, before any other treatment including asthma medicines, corticosteroids and antihistamines.…”

“…As at the date of writing, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists and the Medical Radiation Practice Board are not listed as having endorsed this document.Several small studies have shown that education, especially targeted training involving simulation, can improve knowledge and confidence for treating contrast-related anaphylaxis. 2,4,5,7 Unfortunately, to the authors' knowledge to date, these strategies are not widely embedded in hospital mandatory competency requirements for radiographers and radiologists or in credentialing requirements for stand-alone radiology clinics.As clinical competency to manage foreseeable emergencies is a matter of clinical governance, there is a strong case for health service and corporate governance teams (for stand-alone clinics) to take a lead in making appropriate training mandatory and in partnering with training providers to ensure it is available to staff in a format and location that facilitates participation and skill development. Reliance on an ambulance response, given the known delays, is not enough.…”

“…Several small studies have shown that education, especially targeted training involving simulation, can improve knowledge and confidence for treating contrast-related anaphylaxis. 2,4,5,7 Unfortunately, to the authors' knowledge to date, these strategies are not widely embedded in hospital mandatory competency requirements for radiographers and radiologists or in credentialing requirements for stand-alone radiology clinics.…”