ABSTRACT
BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic required medical staff to quickly adapt to new policies and rota structures. In our large tertiary children’s department, speciality paediatric consultants were redeployed to acute paediatrics. All clinical staff required training in new resuscitation protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidance.ObjectivesSimulation is an acknowledged educational tool. Our aim was to run in-situ simulations to prepare staff for undertaking resuscitation with appropriate PPE precautions during the evolving pandemic.MethodsIn March 2020 we invited all clinical paediatric staff to participate in a 1-hour small group simulation. This focused on donning/doffing PPE and paediatric ABC assessment of the seriously unwell child. Feedback was undertaken using an online tool.ResultsThe main reason cited for participants to attend simulation was due to changing roles on a new rota, returning from other areas such as research and community paediatrics, and to take the opportunity to refresh skills particularly in the context of other courses being cancelled due to the pandemic.41 participants provided feedback;34.1% were non-acute paediatric consultants, 48.8% paediatric residents of all grades and 17.1% nurses. 39.2% of participants did not routinely cover an acute area where emergencies occur prior to the pandemic, and as such would not have taken the opportunity to refresh their knowledge if rota changes were not required.92.3% felt better prepared for acute paediatric shifts during the pandemic. 70.7% reported reduced stress regarding rota reconfiguration. 97.3% found this a useful educational tool.Anecdotally staff felt these sessions enhanced an overall sense of comradery, feeling more prepared for the ‘worst case scenario’.ConclusionsIn-situ simulation is a versatile tool which can help prepare medical staff following resuscitation policy changes (eg. during a pandemic)It has a positive impact on staff feeling prepared, improving staff morale and confidence during resuscitation.As access to and the landscape of educational opportunities change, small session in-situ simulations (while acknowledging physical distancing guidance) has an important role in being a key educational tool during pandemics.