4 Corners Newsletter - Vol 5 - Central Queensland University

MASK-ED TM and iSimulate TM used
for cardiac event training
Simulations training for recognising and responding to the patient who is
deteriorating in hospital has relied on the availability of expensive high-fidelity
simulation training centres. Now researchers are comparing another simulation
system that combines the use of a masked educator playing the role of a patient
(MASK-ED TM simulation) with a simulated monitor/defibrillator (iSimulate TM ).
To ensure realism without harming the learner, twin
iPads are used with iSimulate software to mimic how the
paddles and monitors respond under various conditions.
Research leader Associate Professor Trudy Dwyer says
the CQUniversity study is being carried out in partnership
with staff from Queensland Health, using the innovative
MASK-ED TM simulation package and the iSimulate monitor/
defibrillator.
To gauge effectiveness of the ‘masked educator'
simulations, nurse educators, nursing and medical students
and doctors from various departments at Rockhampton
Hospital have been trying out the system.
Key researchers include Assoc Prof Dwyer, Deb Austen
and Professor Kerry Reid-Searl from CQUniversity and
Michael Guerin and Matthew Johnson from Rockhampton
Hospital.
"High-fidelity manikins offer good feedback for cardiac
event training but they can cost up to $150,000, lack realism
and can be difficult to transport," Assoc Prof Dwyer says.
"We are comparing the cost and effectiveness of using the
masked educator along with the iSimulate platform.”
The aim is to pilot a new teaching simulation method for
educating nurses and doctors in recognising and responding
to the deteriorating patient.
The significance is that unplanned deaths and adverse
events in hospitals are often preceded by a measurable
decline in the patient's condition that has either gone
unnoticed or unreported. Early detection of the deteriorating
patient, initiating a timely response and effective action can
save lives.
Assoc Prof Dwyer says that numerous healthcare
organisations (including the CQ Hospital and Health
Service) have invested in high-fidelity simulation (HFS)
rapid response training centres.
"The cost limitations and expertise required to ‘coordinate'
these high-fidelity simulation laboratories are challenging
and limiting their use as a teaching learning method,
particularly in rural settings.
"The simple, yet effective simulation approach, will be
tested to determine its effectiveness as a training approach.
Educators are seeking the best simulation tools for cardiac
event training
The possible outcomes include identifying that this
approach is effective and can be an option for mobilising
effective simulation scenarios in different clinical contexts,
including rural and remote, without huge expenses in time
or money."
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