VIETNAMESE ANESTHESIOLOGISTS TRAINING ABOUT EMERGENCY FRONT OF NECK ACCESS IN THE CANNOT INTUBATE - CANNOT OXYGENATE CRISIS

Abstract

Background: Emergency front of neck access (eFONA) is the last resort in the Cannot Intubate - Cannot Oxygenate (CICO) crisis. The presence of an algorithm and a well-trained team have been recognized as being essential in reducing errors to achieve a positive outcome. The objective of this study was to evaluate the current situation regarding training, experience and availability of the various means of managing CICO and eFONA in Vietnamese hospitals. Methods: We sent out a link for a 10-question electronic survey to lead anaesthesiologists who subsequently distributed the link to their staff. This was followed by a paper questionnaire at the anaesthesia conference in Hue City. Results: 49.3% of anesthetists are aware of local guidelines in their hospital compared to 69.5% being aware of international guidelines. Only 90 (29.8%) respondents felt they could manage the CICO/eFONA crisis with confidence. Some form of training in managing a CICO crisis has been received by two thirds of respondents (203, 67.2%). Only 88 (29.1%) respondents had received any hands-on simulation training. The majority of participants agreed that some form of compulsory training for CICO/eFONA would be appropriate (98.7%, 298/302). Conclusion: There was a shortage in training, the experience of anesthetists and availability of the various means of managing CICO and eFONA in Vietnamese hospitals. Simulation training should play a vital part in this situation Key words: CICO, eFONA, training and equipment