Abstract
Background: Since January 2020, SARS-CoV-2 outbreak rapidly spread worldwide.
Due to the increasing number of patients requiring respiratory assistance and the lack of intensive/sub-intensive beds, Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NPPV) was used in general hospital units. Thus, Health Care Workers (HCWs) required continuing education to care for NPPV patients.
In a large university-Hospital in Northwest Italy, a training program (TP) addressed to HCWs of general wards (GWs) was held by anesthesiologists and ICU nurses.
Methods: The TP consisted of theoretical classes on respiratory physiopathology, indications, efficacy and safety of NPPV support, proper use of Personal Protective Equipment, and a training session for NPPV device positioning. Participants confidence in NPPV management was evaluated two months after the TP by a 14 items questionnaire.
Results: 23 HCWs (19 Nurses, 4 Physicians) responded to the questionnaire after caring for four patients using NPPV. 22/23 HCWs reported a high level of confidence in positioning NPPV, clinical monitoring and adjusting NPPV parameters. Only 5 HCWs reported a low-moderate (< 7 in 0-10 scale) level of skills. None requested substantial modifications to the training program.
Conclusion: The TP significantly improved HCWs skills in managing NPPV devices. The initial concerns have been successfully overcome, and an adequate level of confidence was achieved. In a time of scarce resources, the implementation of NPPV devices in GWs could be a crucial element to improve patients’ outcomes.
The TP will be extended to other HCWs to further increase their skills and self-confidence in using NPPV devices.
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2021; 58: Suppl. 65, OA1506.
This abstract was presented at the 2021 ERS International Congress, in session “Prediction of exacerbations in patients with COPD”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2021