Clinical Simulation Learning for Small‐Bowel Feeding Tube Insertion

Abstract

Clinical simulation training provides a realistic environment for students and healthcare professionals to strengthen and broaden skills and abilities. This type of learning experience creates a controlled environment in which learners may attain new skills or further develop skills that positively impact patient outcomes. Although few studies exist regarding the use of clinical simulation training and nutrition support practitioners, preliminary data following a small-bowel feeding tube (SBFT) insertion workshop for intensive care unit registered nurses and registered dietitian nutritionists showed potential use in this realm. The purpose of this paper is to provide a basic overview of clinical simulation learning, review literature related to clinical simulation in healthcare, and discuss the recent implementation of a SBFT insertion workshop incorporating clinical simulation learning.

Role of registered dietitians in nasoenteric feeding tube placement

“…41,42 Training may also include a review of evidence-based literature on placement techniques and devices, workshops presented by nutrition support specialists, didactic courses or video training, and simulation training. 43 "Train the Trainer" is another approach in which someone who has already been trained and deemed an expert can train other clinicians. 44 Development of a standardized training process helps to ensure each clinician receives the same comprehensive training to become competent in a skill, especially when various disciples are involved in learning the process.…”

“…Training may also include a review of evidence‐based literature on placement techniques and devices, workshops presented by nutrition support specialists, didactic courses or video training, and simulation training 43 . “Train the Trainer” is another approach in which someone who has already been trained and deemed an expert can train other clinicians 44 .…”

Development of a Competency Model for Placement and Verification of Nasogastric and Nasoenteric Feeding Tubes for Adult Hospitalized Patients

“…Training programs often include didactic courses, required reading or viewing of educational materials, review of a skills checklist, direct observation of NG or NE placement by a trained clinician, and possibly simulation training. 93 Simulation as an educational method emulates the dynamics of a clinical environment and prepares the learner for clinical decision making. 94,95 The emphasis on simulation is often the application and integration of knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment.…”

“…Clinicians must review and understand their facility's placement policy. Training programs often include didactic courses, required reading or viewing of educational materials, review of a skills checklist, direct observation of NG or NE placement by a trained clinician, and possibly simulation training 93 . Simulation as an educational method emulates the dynamics of a clinical environment and prepares the learner for clinical decision making 94,95 .…”

Development and Evaluation of an Online Simulated Hospital Unit for Nutrition Assessment Training

“…Development of diagnosis-specific skill sets via simulation has been demonstrated in the literature. This has included management of type 2 diabetes, 38 insertion of small-bowel feeding tubes, 39 and preparation of parenteral nutrition. 40 Following any simulation experience, debriefing is essential as a means of developing clinical judgment.…”