MedEdPORTAL (Nov 2014)
Complex Care Curriculum: Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Children with special health care needs are increasingly prevalent in US hospitals. The pediatric hospitalist is often the primary provider of inpatient care for these patients. The Complex Care Curriculum was developed to provide a multimodal educational curriculum for providers with the overall goal of improving inpatient care for this population. The curriculum is composed primarily of a series of topic-specific learning modules that vary in length from 40 to 55 minutes. This particular module was created to provide pediatricians with educational materials related to ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts for the medically complex child. Methods This resource includes a multimedia narrated PowerPoint show for asynchronous learning; a PowerPoint presentation adapted for didactic teaching; accompanying facilitator guides; suggested pre-/posttest multiple-choice questions with answer key; an evaluation tool; and a complete list of references and resources. The target audience is pediatric hospitalists and other general pediatric providers or trainees who care for medically complex children in an inpatient setting, although the module may also be applicable to health care providers in outpatient settings. This resource can be used to study independently or to teach to other learners in small-group settings. Results The Complex Care Curriculum, including this specific learning activity, was first launched at Children's National Medical Center (CNMC) in Washington, DC, in February 2012. The original modules were piloted at CNMC, and 26 participants volunteered to review them all; impact on knowledge, skills, and attitudes was assessed during the study period (February 2012-June 2012). This VP Shunt module was piloted at CNMC from April 2014-June 2014. Feedback regarding the content and organization of the module was overall very positive, and increased knowledge was evidenced by improvements in the posttest scores. Discussion This module is not designed to address the specific conditions and potential confounding implications on VP shunt management, nor is the module intended to supplant the need for specialist consultation regarding VP shunt issues. It is aimed at enhancing the conversation between pediatric hospitalists/pediatric trainees and subspecialists. The module could be improved with the use of advanced technological depiction of a VP shunt and its placement to increase understanding of the physical appearance of a VP shunt. Formation of a validated algorithm for the management of VP shunt failure could provide better guidance for a practitioner faced with this clinical scenario.
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