Pioneering the simulation space for multidisciplinary tracheostomy education and management.

Abstract

Background: Established in 1997, Monash Simulation was one of the first healthcare simulation centres in the Southern Hemisphere. The Centre provides education and training for clinicians, nursing and allied health staff so they can develop and refine their skills, and gain experience, knowledge and confidence using simulation technology, in a safe and supportive environment. Physiotherapy (PT) and Speech Pathology (SP) clinical leads have partnered to further develop a multidisciplinary tracheostomy simulation education program for clinicians. Aim: 1) Provide a supportive and structured learning environment for clinicians’ to develop and maintain clinical skills in the area of adult tracheostomy; 2) Perform tracheostomy management in collaboration with appropriate members of the multidisciplinary team. 3) Facilitate effective teamwork in managing a tracheostomy patient, including leadership, effective communication, role allocation, recommendations and escalation of care as appropriate; 4) Use reflective practice to examine past practice, with the purpose of practice improvement and self-understanding. Methods: Relationships were established with key stakeholders. An implementation model was developed with consideration of cross site staffing and skill mix. Existing clinical case scenarios were adapted for joint PT and SP tracheostomy assessment and management. A program of education sessions was scheduled. The first MDT session successfully ran on 12th June 2024. A SP specific evaluation was completed. Results: Learners engaged well and reported increased confidence, level of comfort and feeling supported to develop/maintain skills in tracheostomy care. The SP clinical leads enjoyed facilitating education sessions in an innovative, safe and supportive space. Conclusion: Monash Simulation provides clinicians with a supportive environment to develop/maintain skills that can translate into clinical practice. Strong working relationships with the Monash Simulation team have been established with the aim to further enhance learning opportunities for our future workforce.