Simulation as a learning tool for continuing education on cardiorespiratory arrest.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the level of knowledge and the degree of satisfaction obtained through continuous training in simulation-debriefing methods as a learning tool in the care of cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA).

METHOD: A quasi-experimental study. Evaluation by ad hoc questionnaire (pre and post, and reassessment at 4 months) to all professionals (physicians and nurses) who passed any of the 6 editions of the course: 'Simulation of situations of cardiopulmonary arrest or peri-arrest in hospitalisation units'. Descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS: 133 participants, 16 physicians, and 117 nurses. Before the course started, the level of knowledge was 78.5%, at the end of training it was 94.6% (P<.001), and after 4 months, it was 88% (P<.05). The satisfaction achieved was 91.8% at the end of the course, and subsequently 88.4%; this was significant (P<.05) among the younger professionals, with less experience and with a temporary contract. Eighty one point two percent of the participants expressed that they changed the way they acted during a cardiopulmonary arrest.

CONCLUSIONS: Continuous education in CPA, performed through simulation-debriefing, is consolidated in our field as an effective tool to acquire a suitable level of knowledge that lasts over time. The level of satisfaction achieved was high since this method of learning meets the expectations of the professionals and resembles real care practice.