Interruption Management: Education and Practice using Simulations with Embedded Interruptions

Abstract

Research demonstrates that interruptions increase risks for errors and decrease task efficiency. Interruptions to nurses in healthcare settings are prevalent, particularly during medication administration. Experts recommend that nurses and nursing students learn strategies to mitigate the negative effects of interruptions. However, among the nursing population, there is sparse evidence of methods used to teach interruption management skills. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development and implementation of an education bundle that was used to teach nursing students an interruption management strategy. The bundle included simulated medication administration scenarios with embedded interruptions and distractions.