Needs Statement

There is a critical need for effective communication and collaboration in pediatric emergency medicine (PEM), where rapid decision-making and teamwork directly impact patient outcomes. Despite its importance, professional practice gaps persist, including challenges related to communication styles, team dynamics, and the integration of advanced technologies. Failures in communication, fragmented situational awareness, and misaligned goals can lead to suboptimal outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted training. PEM physicians face challenges in managing vicarious trauma and building resilience while caring for trauma-exposed children and families. Evidence-based strategies to mitigate these stressors and maintain provider well-being are essential to sustain high-quality care delivery. To address these gaps, this CME activity integrates the DISC assessment tool, simulation-based training exercises in team reflexivity, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), and strategies for fostering resilience. The DISC tool enables PEM providers to understand their own communication styles and those of their teams, improving conflict resolution and collaboration. Simulation-based training enhances adaptive team responses in resuscitations, while AI technologies, including large language models, offer opportunities to streamline decision-making, enhance educational outcomes, and support more efficient operations. This activity provides a comprehensive approach to improving teamwork, fostering collaboration, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and promoting provider well-being to optimize team performance, enhance resilience, and improve patient outcomes in pediatric emergency medicine.

Target Audience 

This activity is for Pediatric Emergency Medicine Faculty, Fellows, and Advanced Practice Providers.

Educational Methods

Lecture and Small Group Breakout Sessions

Objectives

At the conclusion of the sessions, the participants should be able to:

• Apply DISC profiles to adjust communication approaches, improving clarity, listening, and conflict resolution during real-time clinical situations.
• Analyze team performance during simulated trauma care using principles of team reflexivity to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.
• Assess the impact of team reflexivity on decision-making processes and trauma resuscitation outcomes.
• Identify practical applications of AI, including ChatGPT, in pediatric emergency medicine to enhance clinical practice and medical education.
• Define key terms related to trauma exposure in healthcare, including Secondary Traumatic Stress, Vicarious Trauma, Compassion Fatigue, and burnout.

Evaluation

Evaluation by questionnaire will address program content, presentation, and possible bias.

Activity Directors

Esther Sampayo, MD, MPH

Associate Professor

Baylor College of Medicine

Joanna Schwartz, MD

Assistant Professor

Baylor College of Medicine