Authors (including presenting author) :
HO TY (1), LEUNG YW (1)(2), LIU SY (3), LO YH (3), LUI MC (1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1) Quality & Safety Department, Kowloon West Cluster, (2) KWC Simulation Training Centre, (3) Supporting Services Department, Princess Margaret Hospital
Introduction :
In healthcare, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients extends beyond the confines of inpatient services. While providing quality care within medical facilities is crucial, the transportation of patients—particularly those in need of specialized services such as Non-Emergency Ambulance Transportation Services (NEATS)—is equally significant. NEATS staff often encounter different risks or challenges when managing a diverse range of patients requiring special attention and care. To enhance the safety and quality of transportation services, a structured training program is essential to equip staff with skills and knowledge to handle unexpected situations.
Objectives :
1) Enhance staff response and practical skills in managing unexpected situation and clinical emergencies during transportation.
2) To enhance the alertness of infection control and cross contamination.
3) Strengthen teamwork and communication skills among NEATS staff.
Methodology :
1. Needs Assessment: Reviewed the past three years incidents involving NEATS transportation and interviewed with NEATS staff to identify specific training needs and gaps in current practices.
2. Course development: Realistic simulation scenarios were incorporated to allow hands-on practice on dealing with real-life situations in a safe environment.
3. A pilot simulation training was conducted to a select group of NEATS staff to gather feedback for improving the program
Result & Outcome :
Two pilot simulation training classes were held on 2 and 4 Dec 2024. Twenty-four NEATS staff in different ranks attended the classes.
According to the need assessment, the training needs included safe use of Oxygen, patient assessment techniques, safe transferring techniques, infection control precautions and incident reporting. The training composes of sharing on previous work experience, problem based learning and immersive simulation scenarios incorporating all the needs identified.
Pre-course survey revealed that all of them had never attended simulation training before. More than half of them had encountered patient deterioration or incident during their work.
Post course survey showed all of them welcomed simulation training format and reflected that it was a good chance for them to have revision on their usual workflow. They engaged well and learned much from the simulation training. They found the scenarios were useful and relevant to their daily role. Post course evaluation revealed their confident in handling incidents or clinical emergencies were greatly increased.
Conclusion:
The successful implementation of the pilot simulation training for NEATS staff has demonstrated the effectiveness of this educational approach in enhancing patient care and safety in frontline staff.
