An analysis of training activities in the use of critical care equipment within hospitals in the United Kingdom.

Abstract

We investigated how training in the use of electromedical devices in adult and neonatal intensive care departments is organised, designed and delivered. Forty-one departments within two Regional Health Authorities in the United Kingdom returned a detailed questionnaire, from which several nonlinear models were developed using fuzzy logic analysis. The results clearly indicate that training in the use of equipment is a very minor activity, with less than 1% of departmental time spent on providing or receiving such training. Departments that had a higher level of expertise required less assistance from technical personnel. Critical care equipment can be utilised more fully, cost effectively and safely if a formal and regular training programme is implemented.