The resuscitation skills profile of registrars in four major disciplines

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the resuscitation skills profile and self-­‐perceived adequacy of resuscitation skills of registrars in four major disciplines in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Wits: anaesthesiology, general surgery, orthopaedic surgery and obstetrics and gynaecology. The study focused mainly on the popular BLS, ACLS and ATLS resuscitation courses. A prospective, contextual, descriptive study design was used. An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to registrars. Information collected included demographics, resuscitation course qualifications, self-­‐perceived adequacy of resuscitation skills, and any impediments to completing a resuscitation course. One hundred and ninety (n=190) participants were entered into the study. BLS, ACLS and ATLS courses were completed by 161, 133 and 106 participants respectively. There was a high inter-­‐disciplinary difference in completion rates. Of participants who had completed BLS, ACLS and ATLS courses, 25.55%, 34.59%, 68.88% were current in their certification respectively. Registrars cited a lack of time (59.47%), cost (36.32%) and inability to take leave (28.42%) as the main impediments to completion of a resuscitation course. The majority of participants (65,79%, n=125) felt that their resuscitation skills were adequate. Registrars were less confident in managing anaphylaxis and dysrhythmia than inserting a CVP, or managing shock or airway. Registrars who had previously completed either ACLS or ATLS were more confident inserting a CVP (p=0.0024), managing dysrhythmia (p=0.0008) and managing an airway (p=0.0166) than those who had not completed any courses at all. While a high level of completion of BLS, ACLS and ATLS courses was found in the surveyed registrars, the rate of current certification was low. There was a high overall reported level of confidence in resuscitation skill. A number of impediments exist for registrars to complete resuscitation courses. More certification and re-­‐certification in resuscitation courses is required.