Communication in Airway Rescue
Feb 19, 2024![](https://kajabi-storefronts-production.kajabi-cdn.com/kajabi-storefronts-production/file-uploads/blogs/2147545446/images/57a5752-fc8-e48-13-316da2b2e5e0_Concept_Series_website_YouTube_Banner_-2.png)
Clear, concise, safe.
It is well recognised that effective communication in airway rescue is vital to providing timely intervention and keeping your patient safe. Having a shared mental model, and using closed loop communication are two proven methods to improve patient safety. ✅🫵
Here they are in a nutshell:
1️⃣ Shared mental models:
The Vortex Approach is an example of a shared mental model for airway rescue. This means:
👉 The whole team knows the plan
👉 Team members can anticipate the next step
👉 Fixation error is reduced because team members can provide clear prompts
👉 The authority gradient is reduced so that anyone can speak up
In practice, it looks like this:
👉 “Is the patient paralysed?”
👉 “For your next attempt at intubation, would you like a bougie?”
👉 “The videolaryngoscope is ready”
👉 “This is your last attempt at LMA”
2️⃣ Closed loop communication:
Has three steps:
1️⃣ Instruction goes out
2️⃣ Person receiving instruction repeats it back or asks for clarification.
3️⃣ Person giving instruction corrects or confirms, closing the loop.
👉 It provides a safeguard from communication errors
👉 Gives early opportunity to correct misheard instructions
👉 Should always include the use of names so there is no confusion about who the request is for
In practice, it looks like this:
1️⃣ Anaesthetist: “cricoid pressure on”
2️⃣ Nurse: “cricoid pressure is on”
1️⃣ Anaesthetist: “Emily, can you grab the CMAC and set up the 4 blade”
2️⃣ Nurse: “Grabbing the CMAC 4 blade…. CMAC 4 blade is now ready”
How was the communication in your last airway rescue? 🤷♀️
Build knowledge ✅
Improve safety ✅
Ref: https://www.anzca.edu.au/getattachment/71f54974-314a-4d96-bef2-c03f39c8a8e9/PG61(A)-Guideline-for-management-of-evolving-airway-obstruction-transition-to-CICO-airway-emergency