Self-efficacy and Communication in Health Personnel After Simulation Training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Quasi-experimental Study

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a simulation-based Advanced Life Support (ALS) training programme on the self-efficacy and communication of health personnel. The research focussed on whether such training could enhance both technical and non-technical skills, particularly in managing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) situations. A quasi-experimental pre- and post-intervention study was conducted in primary care centres across Andalusia, Spain. A total of 106 health personnel (doctors and nurses), aged 21 to 65 years, participated in the study. Participants completed questionnaires measuring self-efficacy and communication styles before and after a 27-hour blended ALS training programme, which incorporated high-fidelity simulation exercises. Communication was assessed across several dimensions, including expressiveness, preciseness, impression manipulativeness, and emotionality. Post-intervention analysis revealed significant changes in communication styles. Specifically, doctors exhibited a reduction in "impression manipulativeness," while nurses showed an increase in "expressiveness." Although self-efficacy scores improved slightly after the training, the changes were not statistically significant. Correlational analyses indicated that higher self-efficacy was positively associated with "expressiveness" and "preciseness," and negatively associated with "emotionality." In conclusion, simulation-based ALS training led to improved communication among health personnel, with distinct patterns emerging between doctors and nurses. While the simulation training did not significantly increase self-efficacy, the trends observed suggest potential benefits. These findings support the inclusion of simulation in continuing professional development programmes to strengthen non-technical skills essential for effective CPR performance.