Effect of crew resource management training in a multidisciplinary obstetrical setting.

Teamwork and communication failures are a continuing threat to patient safety. Health care organizations have tried to integrate crew resource management (CRM) methods into focused training programs as a potential prevention strategy. While past studies have demonstrated benefits in emergency department settings, studies in the obstetric setting have shown both benefits and mixed results. This study adds to that literature by describing the experiences of participants after their involvement in a CRM intervention. Participants rated the course highly, expressed better knowledge of teamwork and shared decision-making, and also noted improved stress recognition. While patient outcomes were not measured, a positive change in the team and safety climate for the hospital was reported.