How Do We Prepare Respiratory Therapists to Work in Neonatal and Pediatric ICUs? A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: The orientation of respiratory therapists to neonatal and pediatric intensive care units varies greatly among institutions. To date, there is scarce literature on current orientation practices or best practice in regards to training to these areas. Given the limited neonatal and pediatric education provided during respiratory programs, institutions must find efficient ways to prepare respiratory therapists to care for these patient populations.

Methods: The aims of this research project were to investigate how respiratory therapists are being trained, and how that training affects their preparedness to work independently in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units. A qualitative study was performed using one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with respiratory therapists trained to these areas to gain insight into current training practices, as well as training practices that respiratory therapists felt were important for preparing for independent practice. The recorded interviews were transcribed, and qualitative data analysis software was used to analyze the data. This research study qualified as exempt research and the study was approved by the A.T. Still University Institutional Review Board.

Results: The results showed great variability in length of orientation and adjunct training, such as simulations and technology. In addition, most of the participants interviewed felt unprepared for independent practice at the completion of orientation. Participants felt orientation time was spent on equipment management, rather than patient management. The data showed that respiratory therapists with the RRT credential, a bachelor’s degree, and an orientation time of greater than four weeks reported being the most prepared for independent practice.

Conclusions: Orientation methods for training to neonatal and pediatric intensive care units varies greatly and leaves many respiratory therapists feeling unprepared to independently care for this patient population. This study demonstrates the need for further research in this area to help develop best orientation practices of respiratory therapists training to neonatal and pediatric intensive care units.