Cognitive Aids vs. Algorithms
Feb 23, 2024![](https://kajabi-storefronts-production.kajabi-cdn.com/kajabi-storefronts-production/file-uploads/blogs/2147545446/images/c2a05fd-842-5b12-f77-5737f46df8e_Concept_Series_website_YouTube_Banner_-3.png)
We use cognitive aids and algorithms every day, what is the difference and what are the pros and cons of each?
Here's our guide: 👇👇
Cognitive aids are designed to be used DURING an emergency. They are designed based on our understanding of how people perform in a crisis. They are clear, easy to follow and usually in the form of:
👉 Posters
👉 Flowcharts
👉 Checklists
👉 Mnemonics
👉 Large, clear text or icons
Examples
👉 Vortex approach icons and prompts
👉 DRSABCD for cardiac arrest
👉 The ANZAAG anaphylaxis management card
Algorithms are designed to be studied PRIOR TO performance of the intended task. They provide guidance for many possible outcomes and are much more detailed than cognitive aid. Unfortunately, many algorithms still appear on operating theatre walls for the purpose of crisis management, when they are not suited for use in an emergency.
They often include:
👉 Step by step guides
👉 Set of rules
👉 Small, detailed text
👉 Many arms to the flowchart
👉 Complexity
Examples
👉 The difficult airway society flowchart
👉 A troubleshooting guide for a car engine
👉 A detailed management plan for malignant hyperthermia
Remember, the contents of an algorithm can be formulated into a cognitive aid.
Have a look around your perioperative unit and ask, “would this be easy to follow in a crisis?”. If the answer is no, then it’s probably not a cognitive aid! 🥸
Build knowledge ✅
Improve safety ✅
Ref: https://associationofanaesthetists-publications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/anae.14543