Effect of simulation-based suction education on the knowledge and performance of pediatric intensive care unit nurses

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing interventions have a direct effect on the health and clinical improvement of children. Therefore, nurses should be aware of the risks of endotracheal suctioning and receive continuous education in this field. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of simulation-based suction education on knowledge and performance of pediatric intensive care unit nurses. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study between 2019 and 2020, 33 nurses working in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units were selected as availability samples. First, nurses' performance in suctioning was evaluated by a standard checklist, then, suction education was performed by simulation method. Six months after the education, nurses' performance in standard suctioning was re-evaluated and analyzed by SPSS 22 software. Results: The mean score of knowledge and performance after the education (43.99 ± 6.03) was significantly different from before the education (5.58 ± 5.3) (P <0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that nurses' performance in suctioning needs further attention. To improve the clinical performance of nurses, the use of small group education is useful. Therefore, it is suggested that the education courses be delivered to nurses in small group discussions in the form of in-service programs.