Application of the pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium scale to enhance recognition in the PACU

Purpose of Project: The Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale is a validated assessment tool with high sensitivity and specificity. Unfortunately, the PAED scale is under-utilized and current literature shows that pediatric emergence delirium assessment is not consistently performed by anesthesia providers and PACU nurses. Using principles of the Ottawa model of research, the aim of this quality improvement project was to improve pediatric emergence delirium assessment among interprofessional healthcare providers. Methodology: The authors objectives for this quality improvement project were to determine provider knowledge gaps, improve pediatric emergence delirium assessment, and enhance pediatric ED recognition. The project design incorporated a quantitative and qualitative, multiple cohort presentation for Rutgers University nurse anesthesia residents, PACU registered nurses, and anesthesia providers at a large tertiary academic hospital in northern New Jersey. Results: All survey responses for second year RRNA and third year Rutgers Resident Nurse Anesthetists showed statistical improvements for understanding signs and symptoms (m=2.82, m=4.43, p<0.01), use of the PAED scale (m=2.23, m=4.42, p<0.01), and confidence with assessment skills (m=1.21, m=4.08, p