Date of this Version

12-1-2023

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

Background

Simulation-based education is integral to Nurse Anesthesiology training. SBE cultivates effective clinical decision-making in dynamic environments and is conducive for non-technical skills (NTS) to flourish. The consequences of undeveloped NTS in the student registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA) have the potential for egregious and adverse outcomes. However, NTS is not routinely evaluated in nurse anesthesiology training programs. Quantifiable assessment tools can be used to ensure the satisfactory achievement of NTS. Evidence supports using the Anesthesia Non-Technical Skills (ANTS) checklist to evaluate and develop NTS in anesthesia providers during their training curriculums. This capstone project aims to demonstrate the use of quantifiable assessment tools for developing NTS in the SRNA and seeks to bridge the gap between simulation and practice in developing effective non-technical skills in student registered nurse anesthetists.

Methods

A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used to investigate the effect of an educational module on anesthesia provider awareness of quantifiable assessment tools to measure and develop non-technical skills to optimize clinical performance. An organizational assessment was performed, and an educational module was developed and disseminated among a small hospital in South Florida. using a computer survey intake platform, data was collected and analyzed.

Results

The data presented reflect a statistical analysis of the pretest and posttest questionnaires following implementation of the educational module. Identical knowledge-based questions were asked on the pretest and posttest to measure whether participants augmented their knowledge after the educational module. Significant statistical difference was noted in several categories on the pretest to posttest questionnaires, which displayed an improved knowledge base. Additionally, increased awareness of NTS improved the perception of debriefing after simulation-based education, making its application readily available.

Discussion

The findings and insights gained from this successful quality improvement project can lead to improved development of NTS and enhanced patient care and safety. Simulation-based training in concurrence post-scenario debriefing is an excellent opportunity to apply the ANTS tool. Standardizing and validating assessment tools empower educators and preceptors to better prepare future nurse anesthetists. Timely utilization of quantifiable assessment tools is imperative for developing NTS in the SRNA. The limitations of the quality improvement project included the small sample size, virtual implementation of educational module, and attrition. A quality improvement project of this magnitude can be used to elicit practice change in both the clinical setting and the education arena. The development of NTS in SRNAs leads to an enriched knowledge base and improved skill sets, thus improving forthcoming clinical performance and optimizing patient care.

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