Sibley Memorial Hospital recently adopted the American Heart Association’s Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program, a system that is an update to the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification training. Instead of an intensive crash course every two years, required training and content refresh is spread out across each year.

“Research shows that within the first three months after the traditional training, when we’ve recently reviewed advanced life support algorithms or basic life support steps, we know we are doing a good job and that makes us more confident in applying our skills for our patients. That can lead to better outcomes,” says Marie Evans, M.S.N., R.N., C.P.A.N., the Sibley nursing professional development specialist who spearheaded adoption of RQI. 

The new system is a computer-based, module-by-module test coupled with hands-on practice on a simulation mannequin cart. Each quarter features a different snippet of critical information, and users find the mannequin in its assigned location and can practice when ready. The computer provides feedback on the life-support skills used, such as how much pressure the user is applying in compressions. 

By spreading the skills out consistently across the year, and making the mannequin and the test modules accessible to clinical care providers close to where they work, the program helps ensure that the motor skills associated with life-support practices are part of a care provider’s daily life. As people adjust to the new workflow, the reviews from those who have completed modules are positive. 

Evans says that really, only one goal matters. “If we can save one life by undertaking this major shift in how we teach, all the implementation work and the challenges of making the change will be worth it.”