Improving Undergraduate Nursing Student Knowledge on Early Recognition of Pediatric Sepsis

Abstract

By Hope Whiteside, Nursing; Molly Bunnell, Nursing; Jenna Wright, Nursing; Erica Evans, Nursing; Anna Carson, Nursing; Rebecca Wilson, Nursing

Advisor: Tamara Brockman

Awards: Presenter Award: Excellence in Research Communication

Presentation ID: 68

Abstract: Sepsis is a life threatening condition and one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality for the pediatric population in the world. Outcomes of sepsis are highly dependent upon time and therefore early recognition is essential for the effectiveness of treatment and achievement of positive outcomes. The purpose of this educational project is to educate nursing students in their pediatric class about sepsis in the pediatric population in order to increase their knowledge as they head into clinical settings. An educational PowerPoint was created to present to an undergraduate pediatric nursing class in which the causes, signs and symptoms, and importance of early recognition of sepsis in pediatric patients are discussed. The incorporation of videos, interactive learning activities, pictures/diagrams, and sepsis protocol tools from multiple hospitals are used to accommodate the different learning styles of students. A pre- and post- test will be administered to the class in order to measure the effectiveness of the educational intervention. Results and conclusions for the educational plan and study are pending.