A Quality Improvement Educational Intervention to Increase Knowledge of Cardiogastroenterology Amongst Medical Trainees and Nursing Staff

INTRODUCTION: The American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy recommends continuing aspirin prior to routine endoscopy. National data show that few endoscopists follow the current guidelines due to concern about bleeding and perceived minimal downside to stopping aspirin. Utilizing the Kern model, we implemented an educational quality improvement initiative aimed at increasing knowledge of antithrombotic management periendoscopy and during acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. METHODS: We implemented an interactive lecture incorporating a large-group discussion to help residents learn to define low- versus high-risk procedures, distinguish thrombotic risk in medical conditions, present the procedural risks associated with use of antiplatelets, and list current practice guidelines. Nursing staff received a tailored lecture with the goal of learning proper management of current antiplatelets and holding parameters for anticoagulants prior to endoscopy. Both groups received pre-and posttest questionnaires evaluating their knowledge. RESULTS: Eighteen nurses and 75 medical trainees received this intervention. Significant score improvement was noted in both groups. The greatest change was seen in aspirin management (30.5% vs. 95.0% for group 1, 43.7% vs. 91.9% for group 2; p < .0001). For management of antiplatelets after aspirin-induced GI bleed, the medical trainees improved from 50.7% to 93.3%. Chi-square analysis showed a statistically significant difference in knowledge across all areas among medical trainees pre-and posttest (p < .001). DISCUSSION: This quality-based educational intervention significantly increased the knowledge of nurses and medical trainees in management guidelines that directly impact patient care. Similar educational programs may be very effective in improving quality and safety.