Primary Author: | Bonnie Haupt, DNP (c), MSN, RN, CNL, CHSE |
Co-Principal Investigators/Collaborators: | N/A |
Organization: | VA Connecticut Healthcare System |
Abstract
Purpose
The study aimed to evaluate the influence of simulation education on Veterans undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgeries knowledge, satisfaction, anxiety, and length of stay.
Background
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery accounts for the largest number of open heart surgeries performed in the United States (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [USDHHS], 2011). Patients receiving CABG surgeries have expressed anxieties in the post-operative period over lack of complete understandings of post-operative care and expectations. In 2006, The Joint Commission (TJC) mandated that each patient receive education specific to their care and treatment; however, few facilities have focused on various educational methods. Most educational experiences for patients have included verbal and written handouts. It has been identified that an absence of diverse teaching methods can lead to a lack of patient understanding (Hahn, Fish, Dunn & Halperin, 2005; Harless et al., 2009; Kolb, 1984; Mikulaninec, 1987). Studies have shown poor outcomes in surgical patients related to patient anxiety levels and that the average patient receiving any form of pre-operative instruction had more favorable outcomes (Brunges & Avigone, 2003; Pignay-Demaria, Lesperance, Demaria, Frasure-Smith, & Perrault, 2003; Shuldham, 2001).
Materials & Methods
An experimental pre and post test design was used with 20 Veterans scheduled to receive CABG surgery.
Results
There was no significant improvement in length of stay in Veterans in either educational group. However, use of a high-fidelity simulation education intervention experience revealed a significant increase in Veteran knowledge group (t (10.25) = 7.09, p = .0001, d=3.19) and satisfaction (9.24) = 2.66, p = .03, d=1.20) compared to the control usual pre-CABG education sessions. Veterans also had a significant decrease in State anxiety scores in the intervention simulation education group over the control usual pre-CABG groups (t (18) = -2.61, p = .02, d=1.17).
Conclusion
Simulation education is an effective educational tool for education CABG patients pre-operatively. The findings of the study indicate a benefit to Veteran knowledge, satisfaction and anxiety levels when utilizing high-fidelity simulation education.
Bibliography
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© Improvement Science Research Network, 2012
The ISRN published this as received and with permission from the author(s).