Obstetrical Simulator Curriculum

Sarah Price, MDAmanda Pauley, MDMU Dept. of Obstetrics and GynecologyJCESOM Academy of Medical Educators

Abstract/PurposeThe infrequent and high-stakes nature of obstetric emergencies requires physicians to respond quickly and proficiently to a complex and high-stress situation, a situation they have likely had little opportunity to experience. We planned to create a realistic simulation to prepare physicians at our institution to manage these situations. Shoulder dystocia, vaginal breech extraction, postpartum hemorrhage, and forceps assisted vaginal delivery can all be obstetrical emergencies that require immediate recognition and a well-coordinated response. Simulation education provides an opportunity to learn and master simple as well as complex technical skills needed in emergent situations. This simulation training will have an enormous impact on human performance and improve safety for both the mother and infant.

MethodsA curriculum was written for each of four potential obstetrical emergencies including vaginal breech delivery, shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage, and forceps assisted vaginal delivery. Each emergency has a sample case presentation as well as a checklist of knowledge and skills that physicians are expected to know when they are on the simulator.

Vaginal Breech Delivery32yo G3P2002 at 38 0/7 weeks gestation presents to triage complaining of contractions. Her pregnancy has been uncomplicated. Her two previous deliveries were vaginal deliveries without complication. She is placed on the monitor and the fetal heart tracing is 140s/moderate variability/+accels/no decels. She is contracting every 2-3 minutes and is very uncomfortable with contractions. Upon cervical examination, she is noted to be dilated to 5cm, 80% effaced, and -2 station. However, it does not feel as though the vertex is presenting. Bedside US confirms breech presentation. The patient refuses 1LTCS.

Shoulder Dystocia-H Call for help-E Evaluate for episotomy-L Legs (McRoberts Maneuver)-P Suprapubic pressure to disengage the anterior shoulder-E Enter internal rotation maneuvers (Rubin, Wood screw)-R Remove posterior arm-R Roll patient over

Postpartum HemorrhageCall for nursing help

Ask for a second iv- at least 18 gauge

Assess vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure and pulse oximetry at least every 5 minutes

Start i.v. crystalloid bolus

Assess for atony

Assess for lacerations

Assess for retained products

Repair lacerations and remove retained products if these are found

Perform uterine massage

Place Foley catheter

Notify anesthesia

Begin/increase pitocin administration

Methergine 0.2mg i.m- may repeat up to 3 total doses

Hemabate 0.25mg- may repeat up to 8 total doses in 24 hours

Cytotec 800mcg per rectum

Place Bakri balloon and inflate with 180-200cc saline

Type and cross for 4 units packed RBCs

Notify blood bank if there is a life-threatening hemorrhage

If medical management fails, to OR with plan for possible hysterectomy

B-lynch sutures

Bilateral uterine artery ligation

Once 4 units of packed RBCs are transfused, give cryo/FFP/platelets at a 1:1 ratio with RBCs

Consider uterine artery embolization as a means of avoiding hysterectomy

Forceps Assisted Vaginal Delivery

Indications for Operative Vaginal Delivery

•No indication for operative vaginal delivery is absolute. The following indications apply when the fetal head is engaged and the cervix is fully dilated.

•Prolonged second stage:Nulliparous women: lack of continuing progress for 3 hours with regional anesthesia, or 2 hours without regional anesthesiaMultiparous women: lack of continuing progress for 2 hours with regional anesthesia, or 1 hour without regional anesthesia

•Suspicion of immediate or potential fetal compromise.

•Shortening of the second stage for maternal benefit.

Studies have shown that learning retention rates are significantly higher with hands on training as in simulation laboratories.

Future PlansOur plans are to continue to educate our residents regarding these obstetrical emergencies, but also to involve our nursing and anesthesia staff. Studies have shown that teamwork reduces clinical errors and improves patient outcomes. Therefore, we will conduct drills with our simulator to assist in team training.