Improving Adherence to a Pediatric Advanced Life Support Supraventricular Tachycardia Algorithm in Community Emergency Departments Following in Situ Simulation

BACKGROUND: Recognition and management of pediatric dysrhythmias is challenging for community emergency department (CED) providers, given their infrequent exposure to these cases. METHOD: A prospective, interventional study measured adherence of CEDs to pediatric supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) algorithm pre- and postimplementation of an in situ simulation-based collaborative program. CED teams' adherence was scored using a composite adherence score (CAS) based on the number of actions scored correctly on the performance checklist. RESULTS: A total of 74 multiprofessional teams from nine CEDs participated in simulated sessions. Of 367 participants, 12.3% were physicians, 62.1% were RNs, and 25.6% were other providers. The mean CAS improved from 57% to 71%. The ability to identify an SVT rhythm, stable versus unstable SVT, and the correct performance of synchronized cardioversion significantly improved. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated improvement in overall adherence of CEDs to pediatric SVT algorithm following a collaborative program in simulated setting. This approach could be adapted to improve the quality of care provided to children. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2019;50(9):404-410.].