Critical incidence reporting systems – an option in equine anaesthesia? Results from a panel meeting

Abstract

ObjectiveTo provide a brief introduction into Critical Incident Reporting Systems (CIRS) as used in human medicine, and to report the discussion from a recent panel meeting discussion with 23 equine anaesthetists in preparation for a new CEPEF‐4 (Confidential Enquiry into Perioperative Equine Fatalities) study. Study DesignModerated group discussions, and review of literature. MethodsThe first group discussion focused on the definition of ‘preventable critical incidents’ and/or ‘near misses’ in the context of equine anaesthesia. The second group discussion focused on categorizing critical incidents according to an established framework for analysing risk and safety in clinical medicine. ResultsWhile critical incidents do occur in equine anaesthesia, no critical incident reporting system including systematic collection and analysis of critical incidents is in place. Conclusions and clinical relevanceCritical incident reporting systems could be used to improve safety in equine anaesthesia – in addition to other study types such as mortality studies.