Nurses’ understanding of the necessity of core items recommended by the latest Utstein resuscitation registry template for in-hospital cardiac arrest: A cross-sectional study

Background

It is essential for nurses, who are more likely to be first responders to cardiac arrest patients in hospitals, to understand the items that should be recorded when a cardiac arrest occurs to record the event accurately. We aimed to assess Japanese nurses’ understanding of the necessity of recording core items, as defined in the Utstein-style reporting template.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an anonymous, self-administered online questionnaire survey at Kyoto University Hospital. In addition to nurses’ understanding of the necessity of recording Utstein core items, we collected data on years of experience as a nurse, experiences of encountering in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA), and understanding and confidence in performing basic life support.

Results

Of 1,202 eligible nurses, 492 participated, among whom 5.3% were aware of the Utstein-style reporting template. None of the items were considered “necessary” by all respondents. A documentation form listing the items to be recorded was requested by 86% of the respondents, and 82% reported having difficulties due to a lack of opportunities to learn how to write resuscitation documentation.

Conclusion

We found that nurses lacked an understanding of the Utstein-style reporting template, which is critical for effective management and reporting of IHCA. Detailed and accurate documentation is crucial for improving outcomes in patients with IHCA. Effective education for nurses and development of a recording system are challenges that must be addressed in the future.