International journal of obstetric anesthesia
-
Int J Obstet Anesth · Oct 2001
Simulation as a training and assessment tool in the management of failed intubation in obstetrics.
Failed intubation has been a serious problem in obstetric anaesthesia in the UK. The current study was designed to assess the use of the 'ACCESS' simulator (Anaesthetic Computer-Controlled Emergency Situation Simulator) to evaluate our trainees' performance in an obstetric failed intubation setting. Using a scoring system based on our department's failed intubation drill in obstetrics, 13 junior anaesthetists were recruited for the study and all took part in the simulation exercise. ⋯ Two weeks after that, 12 of the candidates were re-tested, and 11 scored better than their first time. The results were confidential and the authors ensured all feedback was of a positive nature. The study shows that a simulator may be a useful tool for assessment of performance in a simulated emergency situation when combined with practice and formal teaching.
-
Int J Obstet Anesth · Oct 2001
UK registry of high-risk obstetric anaesthesia: report on cardiorespiratory disease.
Forms were sent to members of the Obstetric Anaesthetists' Association requesting information on cardiorespiratory disease in pregnancy. Reports of 274 pregnancies in 259 women were received over four years (1997-2000). There were 83 valve lesions, 52 complex congenital heart disease, 112 miscellaneous heart disease and 27 respiratory disease. ⋯ Ninety-five per cent survived pregnancy in the same state as antepartum, 2% deteriorated and seven died. Ninety-four per cent of babies (258 babies) were delivered in good condition, nine in poor condition and seven died. Despite lack of denominator data and potential biases among the reported cases, the Registry provides a valuable snapshot of current practice in the UK.