Catherine Lerner MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Ana Maria Gaca MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Donald P. Frush MD, Abstract Co-Author: Research funded, General Electric Company

Sue Hohenhaus, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Anjanett Ancarana RT, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Terry A. Seelinger, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Karen S. Frush MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

et al, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

et al, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To compare radiology resident competency with and without a computer based tool in the management of life-threatening events in children

Radiology residents (n=19; 14 male, 5 female; BLS/ACLS=19; PALS=1) were videotaped during two (with and without tool, randomized as to which was first) 5 minute (estimated arrival time of code team) IV anaphylaxis scenarios involving mannequins aged 18 mos and 8 yrs. No advance warning or preparation was given. In half of the scenarios, a computer-based resuscitation tool (based on Broselow-Luten Pediatric Color-coded system) was available to residents. Competency measures included timing, type and dose of interventions.

More residents called a code with the computer-based resuscitation tool than without (17/19 vs. 14/19; p=0.08). While equally likely to request epinephrine whether the tool was available or not, more residents appropriately dosed epinephrine with the tool than without (17/19 vs. 1/19; p<0.001). Number of residents requesting oxygen with the tool was not different from without (17/19). A learning effect was present; average times to call a code, request oxygen, and administer epinephrine were all shorter in the second scenario (129 vs 93 seconds, p=NS; 52 vs. 30 seconds, p<0.001; 152 vs.82 seconds, p=0.025). 100% of trainees felt the resuscitation tool was helpful, and would be useful in a true pediatric emergency in a radiology setting.

Simulation is useful for assessing trainee competency in emergency situations. A significant learning effect suggests these simulations improve trainee performence. A computer-based resuscitation tool significantly improved measures of resident competency for pedaitric safety in radiology. While no prior training for the tool was offered, this may further improve performance in a code scenario. All trainees felt the resuscitation tool was a valuable clinical and educational tool.

A computer-based resuscitation tool can assess and improve performance in treatment of life-threatening events in children.

Lerner, C, Gaca, A, Frush, D, Hohenhaus, S, Ancarana, A, Seelinger, T, Frush, K, et al, , et al, , Enhancing Pediatric Safety: Assessing and Improving Resident Competency in Life-threatening Events with a Computer-based Resuscitation Tool.  Radiological Society of North America 2007 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2007 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2007/5005969.html