Initial Development of C.A.T.E.S.: A Simulation-Based Competency Assessment Instrument for Neonatal Nurse Practitioners.

Purpose: Determine content validity of global statements and operational definitions and choose scenarios for Competency, Assessment, Technology, Education, and Simulation (C.A.T.

Simulation with synergy and community energy.

Neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs) have a crucial role in the management and care of critically ill newborns and infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Their role responsibilities range from daily management of care, oversight of unit and bedside education, execution of advanced procedures, and attendance at high-risk deliveries. During their educational program, there is a mix of didactic and clinical training.

Acquisition and maintenance of competencies through simulation for neonatal nurse practitioners: beyond the basics.

Turmoil in the economy, looming health care reform, and the convergence of a shortage of nursing professionals accompanied by the demand for improving patient safety and decreasing medical errors with limited resources has created an environment likened to the perfect storm. As nurses make up the single largest component of the health care system, it is imperative that nurses achieve and maintain the highest level of competency. The Institute of Medicine's report on the future of nursing identified simulation as a key technological component in facilitating nurses in acquiring and maintaining competencies.

Informing parents about the actual or impending death of their infant in a newborn intensive care unit.

Modern perinatal and neonatal care practices have increased survival of infants that in previous care eras would have perished. The majority of infants admitted to a newborn intensive care unit following delivery currently do well and are discharged home. Unfortunately for others, the ultimate outcome may be death.

Simulation training: a multidisciplinary approach.

Emergency situations arise in health care every day. High-risk environments such as Neonatal Intensive Care Units and labor and delivery units are more susceptible to such emergencies. Occasionally, newborns require assistance with their breathing in the delivery room, while others demand intensive resuscitation including intubation and chest compressions.

Pigtail catheters used in the treatment of pneumothoraces in the neonate.

Air leak in the neonatal population can be a deadly situation. Neonates have many risk factors that can contribute to air leak. These include, but are not limited to, respiratory distress syndrome; mechanical ventilation; sepsis; pneumonia; aspiration of meconium, blood, or amniotic fluid; and congenital malformations.