Escape the Womb: A Maternal Emergency

Abstract

Background.

Due to advanced maternal age, obesity, drug use, and other comorbidities, the frequency of maternal cardiac arrest continues to rise nationally and in our Midwestern community hospital. While still a relatively rare occurrence, the national rise in maternal mortality rates has created a need for population-specific resuscitation education for caregivers of obstetric patients. Educators are challenged with creating engaging, meaningful education that is inexpensive and effective. Educational escape rooms challenge participants to discover clues, solve puzzles, progress through the game and ultimately escape the room. The format offers team problem-solving and experiential learning with immediate feedback in an enjoyable atmosphere.

Aim.

In order to provide an interprofessional and economical educational intervention for labor and delivery teams, the authors created an escape room focused on principles of effective maternal resuscitation.

Method.

Participants completed an evaluation tool measuring perceptions of content clarity and confidence, and an author created pre-test and post-test to measure knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation medications and interventions for the obstetric patient.

Results and Conclusions.

Comparison of aggregated pre- and post-test showed an 11% increase in knowledge scores. All participants self-evaluation showed improved clarity and confidence and described the activity as a fun way to learn and reinforce knowledge.