AANA Journal: Improving Anesthesia Providers’ Needle Cricothyrotomy Success With Ultrasound-Guidance: A Cadaveric Quality Improvement Project-Improving Anesthesia Providers' Needle Cricothyrotomy Success With Ultrasound Guidance

Improving Anesthesia Providers' Needle Cricothyrotomy Success With Ultrasound Guidance

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The article discusses the importance of successful cricothyrotomy in managing difficult airways for anesthesia providers, emphasizing the significance of proper identification of the cricothyroid membrane (CTM). A study involving ten certified registered nurse anesthetists evaluated their competency in ultrasound-guided needle cricothyrotomy following an educational session using human cadavers. The results showed an improvement in knowledge, confidence, and performance immediately after the session and even after 60 days. The study concluded that a one-hour educational program could enhance ultrasound and cricothyrotomy skills for 60 days. Despite challenges in transducer orientation, participants showed better needle placement accuracy and reduced time to identify the CTM. The study recommends regular training and ultrasound use to maintain proficiency in cricothyrotomy skills. Additionally, the importance of ultrasound in accurately identifying the CTM and the benefits of e-learning followed by hands-on training were highlighted. The findings suggest the need for ongoing education and hands-on practice to improve performance in ultrasound-guided cricothyrotomy procedures, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in airway emergencies.

Keywords

cricothyrotomy

difficult airways

anesthesia providers

ultrasound-guided needle cricothyrotomy

cricothyroid membrane

educational program

ultrasound use

e-learning

hands-on training

patient outcomes