Comprehensive Evaluation of a Central Line Simulation Course

Study Summary

An estimated 250,000 cases of central line-associated bloodstream infections occur in US hospitals annually, and an estimated 30,000 to 62,000 patients die as a result, the marginal cost of which to the health-care system is approximately $25,000 per episode. Inconsistent and outdated clinical practices have been identified as key causative factors. In order to improve overall healthcare delivery and outcomes, current and future healthcare professionals need to complement their clinical skills with systems-based skills. Specific to the problems of central lines, during a 2005 chart review of institutional patient safety issues, a LVHN internal quality committee found multiple cases involving the insertion of central lines, including cases involving arterial placement and malposition. The internal quality committee review revealed that newer residents were primarily involved in these cases. As a result of the committee's findings and review of the literature, a standardized Central Line Access and Placement course was designed as part of the incoming residents'orientation process. This study's goal was to contribute to the knowledge-base of health professional education and to build a sustainable model for one set of learning and development interventions, with the expectation that findings will have broad relevance for patient safety initiatives, health professional training and development programs, and healthcare delivery improvement.