Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service II (Projects aiming to enhance clinical safety and outcomes, clinical governance / risk management)
Proposed Topic (Second preferred): :
Staff Engagement and Empowerment (motivating staff / teamwork / work revamp tackling manpower issue / staff wellness / OSH / retention)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong KW (1), Pun KL (1)
Affiliation :
(1) Nursing Services Division, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) are portable electronic devices used to assess cardiac rhythm and deliver a shock to individuals experiencing ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. They are readily available in public areas such as shopping malls, train stations, and hospitals. However, during a recent resuscitation drill near the hospital, it was observed that non-nursing staff lacked confidence in using AEDs and providing immediate life-saving interventions. To address this, the Nursing Services Division of Tung Wah Eastern Hospital (TWEH) developed a training program to familiarize non-nursing staff with basic life support and AED usage during resuscitation.
Objectives :
- To provide non-nursing staff with knowledge on basic life support and skills for safe and effective AED usage.
- To enhance staff confidence and competence in responding effectively during cardiac emergencies.
- To continuously improve the quality of resuscitation efforts.
Methodology :
A tailored training program was developed by the TWEH Nursing Services Division for non-nursing staff. It covered the theory of basic life support and the skills required for safe and effective AED usage. Pre-test and post-test questionnaires were administered to assess participants' knowledge and confidence in using AEDs before and after the training. The training also included a return demonstration where participants could practice their skills and receive feedback from trainers for improvement.
Result & Outcome :
Between February 2023 and April 2023, eight training sessions were conducted, receiving highly positive feedback. A total of 85 non-nursing staff members participated. Prior to the training, the average score on the knowledge test was 60 (n=70), which increased to 88 (n=74) after the training. Additionally, participants' mean confidence level in using AEDs improved to 5.5/6 (n=74) after the training. Overall, all participants expressed satisfaction with the training program.
A specialized training program for non-nursing staff effectively provides the necessary knowledge and skills for basic life support and AED usage, while also boosting their confidence in using AEDs.
Public health implications:
Continued efforts to promote AED usage will further optimize life-saving potential during cardiac emergencies.
