Rare obstetric emergencies can become life-or-death situations in a matter of minutes. To help rural healthcare teams stay prepared, North Valley Hospital is pursuing funding through the Washington State Office of Rural Health for a regional simulation-based training program. The program would bring realistic emergency scenarios to hospitals and EMS partners throughout Okanogan and Ferry counties.
Multidisciplinary teams from North Valley Hospital, Mid-Valley Hospital, Three Rivers Hospital, Ferry County Hospital and Lifeline Ambulance Service are set to start training if funding is secured.
Led by simulation specialist and former obstetric nurse Kristy Terzi, the program prepares teams for rare but life-threatening obstetric emergencies, including postpartum hemorrhage, hypertensive crisis, shoulder dystocia, emergency delivery and newborn resuscitation.
These realistic simulations are designed to strengthen teamwork, improve communication, standardize emergency response and build confidence in high-pressure situations.
By delivering evidence-based training where it is needed most, the program aims to strengthen maternal and newborn emergency preparedness, expand workforce skills and help rural care teams provide safer care for families across North Central Washington.
Sincerely,
Trish Anderson
WSHA Senior Director of Clinical Excellence
[email protected]