Pediatric Emergency Medicine Simulation Curriculum: Supraventricular Tachycardia

Abstract

Abstract Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is the most common rhythm disturbance in children, affecting approximately 1 in 250 children. Its incidence is greater in critically ill children or those with congenital or acquired heart disease. Medical providers should recognize children in SVT early. Medical providers should initiate reinstitution of a normal sinus rhythm rapidly and beware of the risk for potential deterioration of the rhythm if not treated appropriately in a timely manner. The goal of this scenario is to provide the learner with an opportunity to manage life-threatening pediatric supraventricular tachycardia, where the correct steps need to be taken in a limited period of time. We included extensive preparatory material, to help the instructor prepare the environment and learners. The debriefing tools have been tailored specifically for this scenario, with advice on how the instructor can edit them for different learners. This resource will help support standardization of the teaching process, helping simulation instructors maximize their impact. Supplemental learner handouts can reinforce teaching points. The inclusion of a learner feedback form supports the instructor's ongoing growth while helping faculty to document their teaching efforts. In addition, we created this resource to stand alone, and providing a standard collection of instructor resources since we have had to rely on a variety of instructors to implement our curriculum. Over the past 4 years, we found that instructors who teach intermittently can successfully foster simulation-based education using this resource. While resources do not replace experience and grounding in simulation education theory, they can help instructors at all levels provide more consistent learning experiences for students.

Keywords

• Pediatrics
• Pediatric Resuscitation
• Pediatric Supraventricular Tachycardia
• Pediatric Arrhythmias