Reduced symptoms of anxiety among professional caregivers facing cardiac arrest after simulation based training

Professional caregivers often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder after intra-hospital cardiac arrest. The aim of our study was to describe long-term evolution of symptoms of anxiety among professional caregivers after a simulation-based training. Our study was a prospective, single-center pilot study conducted at Nancy-Brabois University Hospital. The sample included 56 professional caregivers, divided into two groups: 26 participants who underwent simulation-based training and 30 controls who did not participate during the study period. This sample size was determined based on the availability of participants and the exploratory nature of the pilot study. Each simulation involved a team of junior healthcare providers. Symptoms of anxiety and self-efficacy were assessed using standardized scales before, immediately after, and 3 months post-training. Control professional caregivers completed the same assessments without training. The symptoms of anxiety were assessed using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire while self-efficacy was assessed by Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Self-Efficacy Scale (CPR-SES). Nine simulation-based training sessions were conducted, each including a team of professional caregivers (one junior physician, one junior nurse, and one care assistant). There was no significant difference in symptoms of anxiety immediately after training. However, after 3 months, both state and trait anxiety significantly decreased, while self-efficacy improved among the professional caregivers who attended the simulation-based training. Our study shows sustained behavioral improvements in professional caregivers after simulation-based training, enhancing their self-efficacy in cardiac arrest management. Further research is needed to evaluate the longevity and necessity of repeated training sessions.