Point of View (POV) Simulation - Sepsis Education

Project: "Think like me"

Innovation

Point of View Video replacing classroom didactic

Topic

Sepsis

An interactive instruction method is better for sepsis education for new emergency nurses as it engages them actively in the learning process, leading to better retention and understanding of the material. In this case, the objective was to get the new emergency nurse to think like a veteran emergency nurse from the start. Sepsis education for new graduate nurses is crucial as it helps them recognize early signs, provide prompt interventions, and improve patient outcomes.

Planning a new approach

Learners watch each team member's perspective; they understand how each task contributes to a goal and see how effective team dynamics contribute to a better outcome. They also learn sepsis pathophysiology, identify risk factors, monitor vital signs, and implement evidence-based protocols for timely treatment. The interactive case study is paired with hands-on simulations that enhance the learner's understanding and decision-making skills in managing septic patients. The model allows nurses to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios, fostering practical skills and problem-solving abilities. Moreover, interactive learning creates a more dynamic and enjoyable environment, increasing motivation and knowledge retention.

Challenge

Make learning fun and engaging

Standard didactic instruction, where the new nurse is presented with lecture-style information without much opportunity for engagement or interaction, is boring. The traditional lecture-style classroom or didactic learning approach does not effectively cater to the individual learning preferences of the participants or harness their enthusiasm to learn the content.

Solution

Create opportunities to apply knowledge as it is taught

Presenting a filmed case study that brings learners to various junctions in the case where they must decide on the priority interventions allows them to apply knowledge immediately. The learners become immersed in the experience, making learning more engaging, relevant, and memorable.

Planning

Production Planning

The case presented is a septic infant arriving by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at the Emergency Department from the pediatrician's office. The veteran nurses collaborate with their physician(s) and ancillary teams to resuscitate the infant and stabilize it to be transferred out of the facility to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. The case is approximately twelve minutes long, has been filmed multiple ways, and allows the learners to choose the clinical pathway they deem most appropriate.

Write Cases and review with Subject Matter Experts (Physicians, Pharmacists, etc..).
Write Scripts for the POV Video Participants
Film Cases following Multiple Pathways
Edit the Film and Build the Education

Evaluate

Demonstrate the Return on Investment

Hospital administrators make decisions about resource allocation, budgeting, and strategic planning to ensure the organization's financial sustainability and overall success. The POV Simulation project led to the participants demonstrating increased confidence in caring for the patient population and prioritizing antibiotic administration. In three years following the implementation of the education activity, the participating nurses maintain a consistent practice. Data obtained demonstrates their approach prioritized antibiotics faster than their peers in all but two quarters of a fiscal year. The participants became preceptors who have the best results and lead by example.

Improved door to antibiotic times
Sustained results over three years following implementation
Learners who later became preceptors have best practices and lead by example

Clinical Development Grid

Monitor participant actions during a simulation, identify if they can apply knowledge, match with appropriate steps, and exercise clinical judgment.