ALS Debriefing

als critical incident debriefing patient safety Apr 11, 2024
You’ve just managed a cardiac arrest in the operating theatre, and now you’re wondering whether to do a hot debrief. What is the right thing to do? 🤷‍♀️🤷
 
Here’s our guide based on the ANZCA framework, developed by Dr Liz Crowe:
 
What is a hot debrief? 💥🔥
 
A hot debrief is a 5-15 minute team exercise that occurs immediately after an event. It can happen after positive or negative outcomes, but the aim is to generate insights into individual, team and systematic processes. The focus is on the PROCESS and not the OUTCOME.
 
Who attends? 🫂
Only those directly involved, but a hot debrief is voluntary.
 
Who runs it? 🏃
Any staff member can run it! Ideally someone who has emotional intelligence, situational awareness and compassion. Maintaining the psychological safety of the team and managing conflict is key.
 
When & Where? 🏠⏰
ASAP after the event, and definitely in the same shift. A private and confidential area is essential. Sometimes the operating theatre is actually a good location!
 
Why? ❓
Because there is good evidence to support that it builds insight, learning, skills and improves team performance.
 
How? 👀
The IRASTT framework is a good starting point:
 
I: Introductions & Intentions
“I’m Sally, the anaesthetic nurse. I’m proposing we take five to 10 minutes to commit to reflecting on the event that just occurred with an intention to ensure …”
 
R: Reactions
“What are the initial reactions to that case”
 
A: Analysis
Provide a summary of the situation and look at what parts went well, and which parts could be improved next time.
 
S: Summary
Summarise the discussion and share the learnings.
 
T: Take home points
“The key learnings from this debrief are…”
 
T: Thank you
Thank the team and flag the importance of a formal debrief in 5-10 days.
 
Check out ANZCA’s guide via the link below for more information on debriefing.
 
Credit: Liz Crowe & ANZCA
https://libguides.anzca.edu.au/criticalincident/hotdebrief
 

 

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