Enhancing departmental preparedness for COVID-19 using rapid-cycle in-situ simulation

J Hosp Infect. 2020 Aug;105(4):604-607. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2020.06.020. Epub 2020 Jun 13.

Abstract

In response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a rapid-cycle in-situ simulation (ISS) programme was developed to facilitate identification and resolution of systems-based latent safety threats. The simulation involved a possible COVID-19 case in respiratory failure, using a mannequin modified to aerosolize phosphorescent secretions. Thirty-six individuals participated in five ISS sessions over 6 weeks, and a further 20 individuals observed these sessions. Debriefing identified latent safety threats from four domains: personnel, personal protective equipment, supply/environment and communication. These threats were addressed and resolved in later iterations. Ninety-four percent of participants felt more prepared to care for a potential case of COVID-19 after the ISS.

Keywords: COVID-19; Respiratory infections; Simulation.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Betacoronavirus
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Disaster Planning / organization & administration*
  • Epidemics / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / education*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pandemics / prevention & control*
  • Patient Safety / standards*
  • Personal Protective Equipment / standards*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / prevention & control*
  • Pregnancy
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Simulation Training / organization & administration*