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Monday, 18 November 2013
Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to describe the components of a three-tiered educational approach.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to identify future applications for this educational methodology.
The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) has encouraged organizations to implement Early Warning Scoring Systems as part of their Rapid Response Team efforts to identify deteriorating patients. The North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System (NSLIJHS) created a Modified Early Warning System (MEWS) to identify these at-risk patients before significant vital sign changes. An innovative curriculum was developed by two tertiary care facilities within the NSLIJHS utilizing a collaborative approach to staff education. This three-tiered educational initiative involved a self-study online module, case study review, and direct clinical observation. Educators from both institutions worked together to create an online module that was posted on the NSLIJHS intranet. This module was viewed by RN and ancillary staff at both facilities prior to meeting with a nurse educator. In the second tier of education, a review of key points was conducted and staff was given the opportunity to apply the content learned to clinical situations using interactive case scenarios. The third tier of this curriculum included direct one-on-one observation by nurse educators to validate respiratory rate calculation and documentation of vital signs by the ancillary staff. This innovative collaboration allowed for an efficient, standardized approach across two large tertiary care centers resulting in successful implementation of this new initiative. As a result of this multifaceted endeavor, staff report feeling confident and empowered in the care and management of at-risk patients. This novel educational approach was well-received by staff and educators alike and will be applied to future projects.