To describe the healthcare team training in obstetric emergencies using clinical simulation with an interdisciplinary approach, developed at the Hospital virtual Valdecilla.
The program was aimed at health professionals involved in emergency obstetric care (obstetricians and gynecologists, anesthesiologists, intensivists and midwives). A working team was established to define the objectives, design the scenarios, and coordinate the completion of each course. Two simulation rooms were available with patient simulators, control rooms and audiovisual recording systems, an analysis room, a multipurpose classroom, and diverse medical and surgical equipment. To analyze the results of the program, the participants completed an evaluation survey.
A total of 30 members of clinical teams underwent training in the clinical entities most frequently involved in cases of maternal mortality (postpartum hemorrhage, amniotic fluid embolism and eclampsia), selected from the results of a survey of maternal death mailed to 69 Spanish hospitals. Each course consisted of three clinical cases performed in the operating room, postpartum and birthing room, followed by a debriefing session. Participants rated the courses as highly useful, highlighted the opportunity provided by clinical simulation to practice without risk and to train teamwork skills, and would recommend their peers to undergo the same training.
Training of healthcare teams in obstetric emergencies using simulation with an interdisciplinary approach provides safe and effective practice of diagnostic and treatment algorithms, as well as of communication and teamwork skills, before these situations are met in daily practice.