Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a 24-hour dialysis treatment used in critical care patients with renal failure who cannot tolerate three to four-hour intermittent dialysis sessions. The CRRT machine is an advanced technology operated only by trained critical care nurses, who must understand the principles on which the machine works, circuitry, modes, and troubleshooting. Knowledge and understanding is reinforced through practice and experience, resulting in a more efficient and confident process.
In the past, nurses were taught theory related to the renal system and the functioning of the CRRT machine with demonstration. Later they were expected to show five kit installations on patients, before being deemed competent. This, however, is not practically possible as it is a relatively rare procedure, resulting in very few nurses having opportunities to fulfil these criteria. A simulation programme with sign-off was developed by Surgical Intensive Care Unit and CIME team. This not only provided trainees an opportunity to achieve competence it also helped in enhancing their learning by eliminating the fear of making mistakes or harming the patient. It allowed an assessment of their efficiency and enabled them to self-evaluate their performance, with feedback highlighting areas of strength and areas for further improvement.
To conclude, CRRT is an infrequent yet critical therapy requiring a combination of technical and theoretical expertise. Simulation is the answer to safe practice and produces proficiency in practitioners.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a 24-hour dialysis treatment used in critical care patients with renal failure who cannot tolerate three to four-hour intermittent dialysis sessions. The CRRT machine is an advanced technology operated only by trained critical care nurses, who must understand the principles on which the machine works, circuitry, modes, and troubleshooting. Knowledge and understanding is reinforced through practice and experience, resulting in a more efficient and confident process.
In the past, nurses were taught theory related to the renal system and the functioning of the CRRT machine with demonstration. Later they were expected to show five kit installations on patients, before being deemed competent. This, however, is not practically possible as it is a relatively rare procedure, resulting in very few nurses having opportunities to fulfil these criteria. A simulation programme with sign-off was developed by Surgical Intensive Care Unit and CIME team. This not only provided trainees an opportunity to achieve competence it also helped in enhancing their learning by eliminating the fear of making mistakes or harming the patient. It allowed an assessment of their efficiency and enabled them to self-evaluate their performance, with feedback highlighting areas of strength and areas for further improvement.
To conclude, CRRT is an infrequent yet critical therapy requiring a combination of technical and theoretical expertise. Simulation is the answer to safe practice and produces proficiency in practitioners.
