December 28, 2022 – A new online course from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and the Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) is available at no charge to help nurses and other clinicians care for the influx of pediatric patients with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and other respiratory-related illnesses.
The nationwide surge in children hospitalized with critical respiratory issues, coupled with the nurse staffing shortage and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, is placing a severe strain on children’s hospitals. The situation is prompting hospital systems to shuffle staffing and resources to meet the demand.
“Care of the Acutely Ill Pediatric Patient Respiratory Bundle” is an online course developed by CHA, featuring the latest information to support nurses and other clinicians who need to cross-train to care for pediatric patients with RSV, influenza and other respiratory-related illnesses.
AACN and CHA are providing the course free of charge, through March 31, 2023, to provide vital resources in response to the RSV and flu surges. Continuing education certificates, with nine CNE hours, are available at no cost to all learners upon course completion.
Learners are immersed in real-world clinical scenarios, while interactive elements encourage the development of safe and effective practices. The modules are divided into four units that cover:
- Airway Management/Respiratory Support
- Weight-Based Medication Dosing
- Pediatric Codes/Death
- Pediatric Parent/Caregiver Support and Interactions