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Conclusion There was much agreement between paediatricians and GPs, as to the perceived importance of some of the stated presentations and skills, to the undergraduate curriculum, but it was also found that some of their views differed. Primary Care physicians have different perspectives, which should also shape the education provided for medical students. Future curriculum research should look to include other relevant professions, aside from specialists.

Background/contextThe unexpected death of a child is an infrequent and sporadic event. Many health professionals feel underprepared for facing this challenging task.1,2 An inter-professional simulation day was designed to help prepare learners for being faced with unexpected child death.The day comprised introductory lectures, 2 high fidelity simulations of unsuccessful resuscitations including a simulated parent and communication skills sessions addressing breaking bad news.MethodologyImmediate feedback was sought on the day and a follow up questionnaire was sent 4 months later to further explore the educational value.Results/outcomesThe pilot day had 9 participants (medical and nursing staff) – 8 answered the follow up questionnaire.The group had varied prior experience. 50% had no previous formal training on child death procedures or breaking bad news. A significant proportion (5 of 8) had either no experience or had only been the primary deliverer of bad news on fewer than 5 occasions. Limited exposure to informal training opportunities including observation of such encounters and feedback within the work place were also reported.Participants rated this training day positively; with an increase in self-reported confidence in their knowledge around the topic and approaching communication of bad news to parents and families.Simulated parents were rated as being very useful and being immersed in high fidelity simulation prior to these difficult discussions was viewed as helpful; increasing the realism.Conclusions and recommendationsWe have highlighted an area of practice where self-reported confidence is low as a result of limited opportunities for training and feedback that stem from unexpected child death being an infrequent event. This pilot simulation day was well received and resulted in an increased confidence amongst participants. Plans are in place to further this training and to widen the multi disciplinary team involvement.ReferencesHarrison ME, Walling A. What do we know about giving bad news? A Review. Clin Pediatr 2010;49(7):619–626Meyer EC, et al. Difficult conversations: Improving communication skills & relational abilities in health care. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2009;10:352–359