Simulation to Support Standardization of Delivery Room Management of the Very Low Birth-Weight Infant.

Background: The birth of a very low birth-weight (VLBW) infant occurs infrequently, especially in the community hospital setting. It is critical that the team managing care of the infant in its first minutes of life follow evidence-based resuscitation guidelines and practices to optimize outcomes for this population.

Purpose: To implement a simulation program in a community hospital setting that supports standardized evidence-based delivery room practices of the premature infant born less than 30 weeks' gestation.

Methods: Two VLBW emergent delivery scenarios were developed utilizing the neonatal resuscitation program scenario template. Special care nursery interprofessional team members from a community hospital were invited to participate in the simulation program (n = 28). Participants were asked to complete a neonatal version of the Emergency Response Confidence Tool, then view a short presentation related to delivery room management of VLBW infants. Participants attended a simulation program and completed the confidence tool after simulation. The simulation facilitator and unit educator documented team actions during each simulation session.

Findings/results: Fifteen opportunities for improvement within 4 simulation sessions were identified and categorized. Fourteen paired pre- and postsurveys were analyzed. Reported confidence increased in 22 of 23 resuscitation-related items.

Implications for practice: Education and simulation programs providing opportunities to experience high-risk, low-frequency VLBW delivery situations can assist in identifying areas for improvement and may improve team member confidence.

Implications for research: Additional research is needed to assess whether results would be similar if this program were provided at all levels of neonatal care throughout the healthcare system.