Promoting infant safe sleep practices among neonatal and paediatric nurses through simulation-based training program.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of a Simulation-based training (SBT) program on neonatal and paediatric nurses' knowledge regarding infant safe sleep practices.

BACKGROUND

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) presents a major public health concern, preventable through the promotion of optimal safe sleep practices, particularly among neonatal and paediatric nurses. Despite its effectiveness in enhancing nurses' knowledge and clinical skills, SBT is not an adopted training method for nurses in Egypt.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A single-group pre- and post-test design involved 57 nurses from Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, and Paediatric In-patient Unit. The study consisted of two stages. In the first stage, knowledge assessment to identify deficiencies. The second stage, researchers developed four SBT scenarios. Two of these scenarios were recorded for training purposes, while the other two were intended for nurses to actively participate in. Data were collected from May 2022 to January 2023.

RESULTS

A significant improvement in nurses' knowledge of infant safe sleep practices and SIDS prevention was observed (p = 0.000). Nurses expressed high satisfaction with the training program (mean score 45.035 ± 4.38).

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that simulation-based training is an effective approach to promoting safe infant sleep practices among neonatal and paediatric nurses.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Integrating SBT programs into nursing education can enhance nurses' knowledge and skills in infant-safe sleep practices, providing a realistic and interactive learning experience.