Abstract
Aim Current patterns of communication in high-risk clinical situations, such as resuscitation,
are imprecise and prone to error. We hypothesized that the use of standardized communication
techniques would decrease the errors committed by resuscitation teams during neonatal
resuscitation.
Methods In a prospective, single-blinded, matched pairs design with block randomization,
13 subjects performed as a lead resuscitator in two simulated complex neonatal resuscitations.
Two nurses assisted each subject during the simulated resuscitation scenarios. In
one scenario, the nurses used nonstandard communication; in the other, they used standardized
communication techniques. The performance of the subjects was scored to determine
errors committed (defined relative to the Neonatal Resuscitation Program algorithm),
time to initiation of positive pressure ventilation (PPV), and time to initiation
of chest compressions (CC).
Results In scenarios in which subjects were exposed to standardized communication techniques,
there was a trend toward decreased error rate, time to initiation of PPV, and time
to initiation of CC. While not statistically significant, there was a 1.7-second improvement
in time to initiation of PPV and a 7.9-second improvement in time to initiation of
CC.
Conclusions Should these improvements in human performance be replicated in the care of real
newborn infants, they could improve patient outcomes and enhance patient safety.
Keywords
neonatal resuscitation - communication - resuscitation lexicon - errors
