Implementation of an autonomous paramedical training group to manage newborns and children with congenital heart disease in an intensive care unit permits to develop self-confidence and felt quality of care

Introduction

Pre- and postoperative management of children with heart disease in a multidisciplinary neonatal and paediatric intensive care unit offers the advantage of a global vision of the child but requires the development of specific skills and reflexes for the paramedical caregivers.

Objective

Our aim is to show that setting up an autonomous training group in congenital cardiology, managed by and for paramedical services, is feasible and improves self-confidence and the quality of care experienced.

Methods

We are pediatric nurses who have, 12 years ago, set up an independent paramedical working group under the supervision of the medical team in a paediatric intensive care unit with 22 beds and 1000 admissions a year (250 related to congenital heart disease).

We have developed and distributed 4 in-service training courses for all staff (70 nurses, 22 child care assistant) covering pathophysiology, specific techniques, practical organisation, and early rehabilitation (interactive courses adapted to seniority).

This theoretical input is complemented by on-the-job training with gradual progression until the agent is fully autonomous.

We used questionnaires to assess trainees’ feelings before and after training.

Results

Over the past 12 years, 75% of the paramedical team has received this training. All those trained feel that it has improved their care and self-confidence.

Hundred percent of professionals consider the working group to be necessary. It helps to increase professionals’ sense of self-efficacy in terms of their skills, so that they can act appropriately in the field.

Conclusion

Setting up an independent paramedic training group for the intensive care of newborn babies and children with congenital heart disease helps to develop self-confidence and the quality of care they receive.