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Recommended Citation
Montesa T, Tapiador M, Seeman D, Kantoris D, Flynn A. Don’t Flatline on ACLS Skills: Jumpstart nurses’ training with Rapid-Cycle Deliberate Practice . Evidence Based Practice poster presented at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Presentation Notes
Evidence Based Practice poster presented at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Abstract
Background and/or rationale
The Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program provides initial advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) education and quarterly competency assessments. However, its self-directed format creates gaps in effectively practicing the American Heart Association guidelines. Evidence supports that high-fidelity mannequins and Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice (RCDP) improve resuscitation training through realistic scenarios and focused skill development.
Aim or purpose of the initiative
This project aims to enhance confidence in ACLS skills, improve role identification, and promote effective communication using a high-fidelity mannequin and practice of the megacode in RCDP format.
Implementation plan
Using the Melnyk framework, the best available evidence supports the ACLS Foundation simulation’s design. The three-hour simulation includes hands on defibrillator and medication administration skills, cardiac rhythm evaluation and management using ACLS protocols, and end with an RCDP mega code. The high-fidelity mannequin allows for realistic training, while the RCDP format fosters rapid, layered learning by enabling repeated, focused practice of key skills. The RCPD consisted of 4 rounds with different arrhythmias to manage. Each round, the nurses practiced different roles and real-time coaching occurred with emphasis on action-linked phrases, and identifying high priority measures.
Outcomes
Attendance increased from 66 to 139 participants in the second year of the program. Post-activity evaluations showed 100% of learners would alter their practice, with the highest ratings in roles and responsibilities (92%) and communication (83%). Nurses provided feedback this simulation improved their communication (100%), teamwork (92%), and trust (83%), themes included confidence in ACLS protocols and closed-loop communication.
Implications for Practice
New ACLS providers can enhance their skills through the ACLS Foundation simulation. Nurses often hesitate in lead role, so an interdisciplinary megacode simulation using RCDP was developed to allow practice in their typical roles. This approach strengthens nurses' ability to respond effectively in emergencies, ultimately improving resuscitation quality and empowering teams to save lives with confidence.
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
11-12-2025
Don’t Flatline on ACLS Skills: Jumpstart nurses’ training with Rapid-Cycle Deliberate Practice
Background and/or rationale
The Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program provides initial advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) education and quarterly competency assessments. However, its self-directed format creates gaps in effectively practicing the American Heart Association guidelines. Evidence supports that high-fidelity mannequins and Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice (RCDP) improve resuscitation training through realistic scenarios and focused skill development.
Aim or purpose of the initiative
This project aims to enhance confidence in ACLS skills, improve role identification, and promote effective communication using a high-fidelity mannequin and practice of the megacode in RCDP format.
Implementation plan
Using the Melnyk framework, the best available evidence supports the ACLS Foundation simulation’s design. The three-hour simulation includes hands on defibrillator and medication administration skills, cardiac rhythm evaluation and management using ACLS protocols, and end with an RCDP mega code. The high-fidelity mannequin allows for realistic training, while the RCDP format fosters rapid, layered learning by enabling repeated, focused practice of key skills. The RCPD consisted of 4 rounds with different arrhythmias to manage. Each round, the nurses practiced different roles and real-time coaching occurred with emphasis on action-linked phrases, and identifying high priority measures.
Outcomes
Attendance increased from 66 to 139 participants in the second year of the program. Post-activity evaluations showed 100% of learners would alter their practice, with the highest ratings in roles and responsibilities (92%) and communication (83%). Nurses provided feedback this simulation improved their communication (100%), teamwork (92%), and trust (83%), themes included confidence in ACLS protocols and closed-loop communication.
Implications for Practice
New ACLS providers can enhance their skills through the ACLS Foundation simulation. Nurses often hesitate in lead role, so an interdisciplinary megacode simulation using RCDP was developed to allow practice in their typical roles. This approach strengthens nurses' ability to respond effectively in emergencies, ultimately improving resuscitation quality and empowering teams to save lives with confidence.
Affiliations
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital