EPA-0033 – Recognising and Assessing Medical Problems in Psychiatric Settings: The Rampps Course

Abstract

Introduction:

In Mental Health inpatient settings, we are working with a population with high levels of physical morbidity. However, this remains an area where Psychiatrists and Mental Health Nurses can lack confidence in the necessary skills. In other disciplines, simulation has provided an opportunity for safe practice of these and other skills. We describe the genesis and regional development of a multidisciplinary clinical simulation course that looks specifically at such ‘medical’ problems.

Objectives:

By the end of this presentation, the audience will: understand the rationale for the RAMPPS course; understand the development of the project; and understand the tangible benefits.

Aims:

We aim to demonstrate that practising these assessment and initial management skills in a safe, controlled setting can result in improvements in confidence amongst healthcare professionals.

Methods:

We have constructed a number of scenarios based upon real-life serious untoward incidents from inpatient wards. Using high-fidelity manikins, part-task trainers and actors, we produce realistic scenarios where Health Care Assistants, Staff Nurses and Doctors are all expected to work together. Learning objectives are mapped to relevant professional curricula.

Results:

Each professional group reports improvements in confidence across a number of domains. This is borne out in qualitative and quantitative data. Participants appreciate the value of training with colleagues from other disciplines, and feel peers would benefit from similar training.

Conclusions:

Simulation is relatively underused in mental health. We demonstrate a way in which this educational approach can lead to improved confidence in managing deterioration in physical health in our inpatient population.