Anaesthesia
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It is unclear how the recent local and international focus on systems issues and human factors in 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' events has impacted institutional preparedness in Australia and New Zealand. This study attempts to capture a snapshot of current practices in Australian and New Zealand teaching hospitals with regard to preparedness to prevent and manage 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' events. All Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists' teaching hospitals were invited to complete an online survey consisting of 33 questions on terminology, equipment, cognitive aids, training and quality assurance. ⋯ A lack of consistency with the terminology used around 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' both within and between the two countries was also identified. This survey has revealed a generally reassuringly high degree of institutional preparedness to prevent and manage 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' events across both countries but with strong regional differences in approaches. Little is known of the institutional practices outside these countries, making international comparison difficult.