CJCCN Volume 36, Number 3, Winter 2025

Abstract

Background: The sequelae of surviving a critical illness and admission to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is called Post-Intensive Care Syndrome in Pediatrics (PICS-p). Survivors experiencing PICS-p may require ongoing comprehensive follow-up care. In British Columbia (BC), Canada, the province’s extensive land mass and sparsely populated regions, and the centralized location of the quaternary and tertiary PICUs complicate access to specialized post-PICU care, highlighting the need for a shared-care model between PICU specialists and community providers.

Abstract

Traditional orientations for nurses transitioning to critical care, critical care transport (CCT) and emergency department (ED) practice areas have relied on classroom lectures, apprenticeships and preceptored clinicals. Increasing patient acuity, workforce shortages, and limited clinical placement opportunities have challenged these traditional models. In the early 2000’s, simulation began to emerge as a strategy to accelerate readiness for transitioning into the practice area, enhancing clinical judgement, building confidence, and fostering interprofessional team competencies.