Identifying and prioritising technical procedures for simulation-based curriculum in paediatrics: a Delphi-based general needs assessment.

Objectives: To identify and prioritise technical procedures that should be integrated in a curriculum of simulation-based procedural training in paediatrics using the Delphi method.

Study Design: National general needs assessment using a Delphi process was completed among 93 key opinion leaders in paediatrics in Denmark. Delphi round 1 identified technical procedures. Round 2 explored frequency of procedures, number of paediatricians performing the procedures, risks and/or discomfort for patients and feasibility for simulation-based training. Round 3 included final elimination and reprioritisation.

Results: Response rates in the Delphi rounds were 73%, 71% and 72%. We identified 37 procedures in Delphi round 1, preprioritised in round 2, resulting in a final list of 19 procedures in round 3. Strong correlation between the prioritisation from the second and third Delphi rounds was identified, Spearman's r of 0.94 (p<0.0001). Top five on the final list were acute neonatal airway management, acute non-neonatal airway management, non-neonatal peripheral intravenous and intraosseous access, neonatal vascular access and advanced heart lung resuscitation.

Conclusion: We identified and prioritised 19 technical procedures in paediatrics that are suitable for simulation and may be used as a guide for the development of simulation-based curriculum in paediatrics.