New remote hybridlab method of training for neonatal resuscitation: evaluation of trainees

Proper help for newborns during first minutes of their life has a crucial impact on their mortality and morbidity. The use of simulation training is considered to be an indispensable tool to address. Purpose of the study: To evaluate the impact of HybridLab self-direct simulation training on self-evaluation of skills and confidence gained. Materials and methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. In order to reduce neonatal and maternal morbidity, the Health Board of the Southern Kazakhstan Region initiated a joint project in 2010. It involved the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, the Crisis Research Centre, and the Health Boards of the Southern Kazakhstan Region, Almaty and Astana. The new method of blended learning – remote HybridLab self-direct simulation training courses ‘Newborn resuscitation’ were held since 10th of May until 1st of August, 2015. In total, 224 neonatologists, obstetricians gynaecologists, neonatal nurses and midwifes received training in Shymkent, Southern Kazakhstan Region. HybridLab™ method consists of: (1) e-learning (participants preparation before simulation class); (2) training, practice and simulation in HybridLab™ (24/7) without instructor; (3) monitoring, evaluating and debriefing participants’ performance from the distance (in Lithuania). The cycle of newborns resuscitation training was formed of 4 topics (3 of them were based on skills, 1 – on process): (1) preparation for newborn resuscitation; (2) assurance of adequate breathing and oxygenation; (3) assurance of adequate blood circulation; (4) newborn resuscitation: process and skills. Self-evaluation skills and confidence gained were determined using Likert-scale 5 points questionnaire (strongly agree, agree, undecided, disagree, strongly disagree). Questions of self-evaluation about their newborn resuscitation competency were: 1st topic – I am able to prepare for the newborn resuscitation; 2nd topic – I am able to perform effective ventilation; 3rd topic – I am able to perform chest compressions; 4th topic – I am able to perform newborn resuscitation. Results: A total of 192 (86%) trainees participated in the study. The mean evaluation of the 1st topic was 4.88 ± 0.38 (p < 0.001) points, 2nd topic – 4.91 ± 0.33 (p < 0.001) points, 3rd topic – 4.92 ± 0.35 (p < 0.001) points, 4th topic – 4.9 ± 0.33 (p < 0.001) points. The mean remote evaluation of every control and exam situation of the training (4th topic) were: 1st topic – 86.1 ± 15.9% (p < 0.001), 2nd topic – 85.3 ± 13.3% (p < 0.001), 3rd topic – 89.8 ± 14.6% (p < 0.001), 4th topic – 85.1 ± 10.1% (p < 0.001). Conclusion: After newborns resuscitation training, which was conducted remontely with HybridLab training method, the trainees evaluated their knowledge and skills very well. There is a need for more researches, which would help to evaluate the meaning and significance of the new training method for its results and the retention of newborn resuscitation skills.