Publication Date
4-28-2026
Degree Awarded Date
December 18, 2026
Abstract
Background and Significance: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a vital diagnostic tool in perioperative care. At Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing (GSON), Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) formerly received limited TEE instruction, consisting primarily of didactic content. This quality improvement project aimed to enhance SRNA proficiency in TEE by integrating online and simulation-based training.
Review of Literature Findings: Simulation-based education has been shown to improve knowledge, skill, and confidence compared to lecture-only methods (Bloch et al., 2017; Chenkin et al., 2023; Pezel et al., 2023; Weber et al., 2019; Zhao et al., 2021).
Methods: Guided by the Iowa Model and Kirkpatrick Model framework, the intervention included online modules, pre- and post-tests, confidence surveys, and simulation checkoffs. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics®.
Results/Discussion of Findings: Wilcoxon signed-rank testing showed significant increases (p < .05) in three of five module test scores: TEE Probe Instrumentation (2.21 to 3.00, z = 3.051, p = .002), TEE Indications (2.00 to 3.00, z = 2.972, p = .003), and Cardiac Anatomy and TEE Views (2.21 to 3.00, z = 2.598, p = .009). All participants exceeded the 80% competency benchmark on the final exam (M = 14.47, SD = 0.81) and the 50% benchmark on skills checkoff (p < .05).
Implications: This education model was feasible, well-received, and efficiently implemented.
Summary: Significant improvements in knowledge, skill, and confidence support continued use of this model at GSON.
Language
English (en)
Document Type
Other
Advisor
Downey, Julia DNAP, CRNA (Chair) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing
Associated Committee
Torres, Brian DNP, CRNA (Committee Member) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing
Spencer, Julie DNP, RN, CDCES (Committee member) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing
Tharp, Britni DNP, CRNA (Committee member) Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Recommended Citation
Hesse, Sophie; Krippene, Annie; and Shelton, Christian, "Transesophageal Echocardiogram Training for Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists" (2026). Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Student Projects. Paper 27.
Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.wustl.edu/dnp_golfarb/27
