First Advisor

Stoeckel, Pamella

Thesis Committee Member(s)

Stoeckel, Pamella

College

Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

School

Loretto Heights School of Nursing

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Number of Pages

69 pages

Abstract

Research indicates retention after BLS training is poor (Bukiran, Erdur, Ozen, & Bozkurt, 2012; Hamilton, 2005; Smith, Gilcreast, & Pierce, 2008). Infrequent exposure and no practice can compound the problem (Allen, Currey, & Considine, 2013; Abella et al. 2005; Hamilton). Rural healthcare workers - defined as registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) - in this investigator's area typically do not practice their skills after BLS recertification. Oermann et al. (2011) demonstrated short monthly practice sessions can help. The problem statement for this project was: In (P) rural health care providers, (I) do simulated cardiac arrest practice sessions, (C) when compared with no practice sessions, (O) improve knowledge and skill retention and enhance self-efficacy? This was an evidence-based project conducted to answer these questions. The purpose was to provide an opportunity for the rural health care providers to maintain their BLS skills set and to determine the effects of an extra practice session by measuring retention and self-efficacy levels and at different intervals - initial, 30 days, and 60 days. Results from this study, which included 48 participants, showed mixed results. Written exam scores decreased, but none dropped to baseline and this was statistically significant (p = .000), indicating some knowledge retention. The confidence ratings for performing six BLS skills increased and two of these - automated external defibrillator (AED) pad placement and AED operation - were statistically significance (p = .000). Manikin feedback indicated participants from the extra practice session maintained their chest compression skills, but not their ventilation skills. Feedback also revealed the EMTs had scores more consistent with the American Heart Association (AHA) recommendations. EMTs reported more practice, which may account for some of this difference. Small rural facilities may not think they have the resources or the ability to investigate issues and promote evidence-based practice, but this study demonstrates they can.

Date of Award

Fall 2014

Location (Creation)

Colorado (state); Denver (county); Denver (inhabited place)

Rights Statement

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