Effect of a specific training intervention with task interruptions on the quality of simulated advance life support: A randomized multi centered controlled simulation study

Purpose

Task interruptions (TI) are frequent disturbances for emergency professionals performing advanced life support (ALS). The aim of our study was to evaluate a specific training intervention with TI on the quality of simulated ALS.

Methods

During this multi centered randomized controlled trial, each team included one resident, one nurse and one emergency physician. The teams were randomized for the nature of their training session: control (without interruption) or intervention (with TI). The primary outcome was non-technical skills assessed with the TEAM score. We also measured the no flow time, the Cardiff score and chest compression depth and rate.

Results

On a total of 21 included teams, 11 were randomized to a control training session and 10 to the specific TI training. During training, teams’ characteristics and skills were similar between the two groups. During the evaluation session, the TEAM score was not different between groups: median score for control group 33,5 vs 31,5 for intervention group. We also report similar no flow time and Cardiff score.

Conclusion

In this simulated ALS study, a specific training intervention with TI did not improve technical and non-technical skills. Further research is required to limit the impact of TI in emergency settings.