Evolution of clinical event debriefs in a quaternary pediatric emergency department after implementation of a debriefing tool

Background: Debriefing clinical events in the emergency department (ED) can enhance team performance and provide mutual support. However, ED debriefing remains infrequent and nonstandardized. A clinical tool (DISCERN-Debriefing In Situ Conversation after Emergent Resuscitation Now) was developed to facilitate ED debriefing. To date, there are no studies providing qualitative analysis of clinical event debriefs done using such a tool. Our goal was to explore common themes elicited by debriefing following implementation of DISCERN. Methods: This was a retrospective mixed-methods study analyzing DISCERN data from 2012 through 2017 in a pediatric ED. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. With constant comparison analysis, themes were categorized when applicable within the context of crisis resource management (CRM) principles, previously used as a framework for description of nontechnical skills. Member checking was performed to ensure trustworthiness. Results: We reviewed 400 DISCERN forms. Overall, 170 (41.6%) of target clinical events were debriefed during the study period. The number of clinical events debriefed per year decreased significantly over the study period, from 118 debriefed events in 2013 to 20 debriefed events in 2017 (p<0.001). Events were more likely to be debriefed if cardiopulmonary resuscitation was needed (odds ratio [OR] = 11.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.1-33.8]) or if the patient expired (OR = 8.9, 95% CI = 2.1-29.1]). CRM principles accounted for 81% of debriefing statements, focusing on teamwork, communication, and preparation, and these themes remained consistent throughout the study period. Conclusions: Use of the DISCERN tool declined over the study period. The DISCERN tool was utilized more commonly after the highest-acuity events. Clinical event debriefs aligned with CRM principles, with medical knowledge discussed less frequently, and the content of debriefs remained stable over time.