Neonatal resuscitation guideline adherence: simulation study and framework for improvement

We wanted to assess newborn life support (NLS) knowledge and guideline adherence, and provide strategies to improve (neonatal) resuscitation guideline adherence. Pediatricians completed 17 multiple-choice questions (MCQ). They performed a simulated NLS scenario, using a high-fidelity manikin. The literature was systematically searched for publications regarding guideline adherence. Forty-six pediatricians participated: 45 completed the MCQ, 34 performed the scenario. Seventy-one percent (median, IQR 56–82) of the MCQ were answered correctly. Fifty-six percent performed inflation breaths ≤ 60 s, 24% delivered inflation breaths of 2–3 s, and 85% used adequate inspiratory pressures. Airway patency was ensured 83% (IQR 76–92) of the time. Median events/min, compression rate, and percentage of effective compressions were 138/min (IQR 130–145), 120/min (IQR 114–120), and 38% (IQR 24–48), respectively. Other adherence percentages were temperature management 50%, auscultation of initial heart rate 100%, pulse oximeter use 94%, oxygen increase 74%, and correct epinephrine dose 82%. Ten publications were identified and used for our framework. The framework may inspire clinicians, educators, researchers, and guideline developers in their attempt to improve resuscitation guideline adherence. It contains many feasible strategies to enhance professionals’ knowledge, skills, self-efficacy, and team performance, as well as recommendations regarding equipment, environment, and guideline development/dissemination. Conclusion: NLS guideline adherence among pediatricians needs improvement. Our framework is meant to promote resuscitation guideline adherence. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1007/s00431-020-03693-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.