Identifying and prioritising technical procedures for simulation-based curriculum in paediatrics: a Delphi-based general needs assessment

Objectives To identify and prioritise technical procedures that should be integrated in a curriculum of simulation-based procedural training in paediatrics using the Delphi method. Study design National general needs assessment using a Delphi process was completed among 93 key opinion leaders in paediatrics in Denmark. Delphi round 1 identified technical procedures. Round 2 explored frequency of procedures, number of paediatricians performing the procedures, risks and/or discomfort for patients and feasibility for simulation-based training. Round 3 included final elimination and reprioritisation. Results Response rates in the Delphi rounds were 73%, 71% and 72%. We identified 37 procedures in Delphi round 1, preprioritised in round 2, resulting in a final list of 19 procedures in round 3. Strong correlation between the prioritisation from the second and third Delphi rounds was identified, Spearman's r of 0.94 (p<0.0001). Top five on the final list were acute neonatal airway management, acute non-neonatal airway management, non-neonatal peripheral intravenous and intraosseous access, neonatal vascular access and advanced heart lung resuscitation. Conclusion We identified and prioritised 19 technical procedures in paediatrics that are suitable for simulation and may be used as a guide for the development of simulation-based curriculum in paediatrics.