Effect of Video-based Telemedicine on Transport Management of Simulated Newborns

Objective: Video-based telemedicine is a reliable tool to assess the severity of respiratory distress in children, increasing the appropriateness of triage and disposition for acutely ill children. Telemedicine simulations may identify patterns in regional transport management and influence attitudes toward telemedicine.

Methods: The objective was to determine the effect of videos on simulated neonatal transport care compared with telephone management. Participants received information about a newborn requiring respiratory support by an audio recording and made management decisions based on only that information. Four videos of varying respiratory distress on respiratory support were then shown. After each video, participants again rated patient stability and recommended management.

Results: Sixteen neonatologists completed the cases. Compared with the telephone call, there were significant differences in ratings of patient stability and confidence in their assessment after watching the videos. When given the same information, participants were less likely to recommend intubation after viewing an infant in mild respiratory distress than after the telephone call (P < .05). Most participants felt that viewing the videos was helpful in formulating their assessment and plan.

Conclusion: Video-based telemedicine simulations influenced the perceived stability of neonates during transport. Viewing the patient increased provider confidence in their assessment and recommendations.