This course was organised by NISHFN and supported by 
NIMDTA for intermediate level Paediatric and Anaesthetic trainees. It takes place in the high fidelity simulation suite in RBHSC and is supported by an experienced faculty of Paediatricians and Anaesthetists including Paediatric Intensivists.
The most recent course was held on 22nd May and included three anaesthetic trainees with varied paediatric exposure and two paediatric trainees. Pre-course questionnaires asked about perceived confidence and what candidates hoped to gain from the course. Confidence in managing the critically ill child was measured on a Likert Scale (0-5) and the mean was 2.1 with anaesthetic trainees rating themselves 1.5 and Paediatrics 3.
We asked what they hoped to gain from the course
“Confidence with management of critically ill children”
“Inter-disciplinary relationships/working”
“Increased awareness of emergency scenarios”
A paediatric trainee, supported by a paediatric nurse from the faculty, commences the scenario. These can range in age from neonate to the older child and cover a variety of critical conditions. The anaesthetic colleague, also supported by an anaesthetic nurse from the faculty, will be contacted to assist when required. Psychological fidelity is maintained by providing a simulated ‘parent’ and ensuring relevant equipment, including drugs, is available should it be required.
Trainees observed the scenario via video-link and actively participated in the de-brief along with the faculty. This allowed us to discuss technical and non-technical skills including the inter-disciplinary team-working that was being developed.
Following the course post-course evaluations asked about perceived confidence levels using the same scale. Everybody’s individual confidence had increased and the mean had risen to 3.4 (Anaesthetics 3 and Paediatrics 4). Everybody rated the course 5/5 for meeting their learning objectives and enjoying the course.
Candidates comments included
“Excellent course, thanks”
“Excellent course – faculty were extremely knowledgeable and helpful”
“Excellent course, well run, learnt a lot”
Stabilising the critically ill child is a stressful and time-critical situation and it is important that these teams function effectively. Unfortunately, apart from these demanding situations it is rare that different specialties are afforded the opportunity to work together. Following this success this course will be run annually and we would encourage intermediate paediatric and anaesthetic trainees to consider attending in the hope of improving the multi-disciplinary management of critically ill children in Northern Ireland.