Evaluation of a Postpartum Hemorrhage Escape Room: A Multisite Study

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate a teaching strategy that engaged baccalaureate maternity nursing students at two universities in a postpartum hemorrhage escape room. The study examined students’ attainment of knowledge, as well as teamwork, collaboration, communication, and safety. Method A mixed method study was conducted with 85 junior-level and senior-level maternity students at two universities in the Northeastern region of the United States. Participants completed a survey and attended one of 20 focus groups after completion of a healthcare simulation escape room on postpartum hemorrhage. Results Participants (95.2%) reported that the escape room helped with knowledge and skill acquisition. All of the participants reported that it was an effective team building strategy and 97.6% said it fostered communication, learning, and the ability to provide safe patient care. Participants unanimously reported that the escape room was enjoyable, an effective strategy for team building, and they would recommend it to others. Qualitative findings showed six major themes: It was Fun!, No I in Team, Escaping to Learn: Building Knowledge and Confidence, Pressure Cooker, Big Picture, and Lessons Learned. Conclusion Healthcare simulation escape rooms are an effective teaching strategy and can be used by nursing faculty to foster knowledge, teamwork, collaboration, communication and safety. Participant feedback showed high satisfaction and they felt the escape room provided a valuable learning experience.