Arresting Sepsis through Inter-Professional High-Fidelity Simulation

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative curricular project to augment didactic teaching of sepsis content with computer and simulation–based experiences, with a focus on inter-professional communication and collaboration. 

Methods: All students participated in a didactic lecture regarding sepsis within the context of an advanced Medical Surgical (Critical Care) undergraduate BSN theory course. A post-test regarding the material was administered to each student on-line in preparation for a high-fidelity simulation experience. Each student participated actively in a series of three increasingly more acute high-fidelity simulation experiences related to the development of sepsis in the acute care setting. Inter-professional team members interfaced with student participants to allow for active engagement and communication regarding end goal directed therapy. Debriefing after each of the three scenarios took place followed by a retest of knowledge concerning sepsis recognition and treatment.

Results:  Knowledge acquisition measured by post-simulation scores increased by 42% when compared to test scores pre-simulation and post didactic lecture. Inter-professional high fidelity sepsis simulation contributed to short term knowledge retention. Significant improvements in communication among an inter-professional team of clinicians was observed.

Conclusion: High fidelity simulation following didactic lecture enhances short-term knowledge acquisition in undergraduate BSN students in regard to early sepsis recognition and treatment. Incorporation of, and continued evaluation of this curricular innovation is necessary as significant gaps in inter-professional communication skills necessary to implement effective treatment modalities were identified. The evaluation of longitudinal knowledge retention of early goal directed therapy for sepsis among participants is necessary. In addition, measuring the impact of the potential fiscal savings of teaching sepsis through this methodology in health sciences education and clinical practice should be evaluated. Finally, consideration of the adoption of this model of inter-professional education for the undergraduate and graduate health care practitioner should be considered.