Date of this Version
12-4-2023
Document Type
DNP Project
Abstract
Abstract
Impact Statement: In patients undergoing anesthesia with difficult airways, the use of ultrasound to accurately identify the cricothyroid membrane preoperatively will decrease complications related to cricothyrotomies.
Background: In a cannot intubate cannot ventilate scenario an emergency cricothyrotomy is the final step in the emergency airway management algorithm. A successful cricothyrotomy is achieved by placing a tube through the CTM allowing access to the trachea. Currently, the palpation method remains the most popular method for locating the CTM despite research that shows ultrasound use is superior.
Objectives: This project aims to compare the accuracy of locating the CTM utilizing ultrasound vs. palpation.
Method: A literature review was conducted comparing ultrasound and palpation in accurately locating the CTM. An online educational module was created to present to anesthesia providers as well as a pre and post-survey to assess the degree of knowledge acquired. The project was presented to FIU anesthesia alumni using an anonymous online platform for survey and module delivery as well as data collection.
Results: In total six FIU Alumni participated in the teaching module. Participants showed a solid baseline knowledge related to cricothyrotomies. There was a 33% increase in participants who indicated they would be extremely likely to use any technique following the educational module. There was also a 33% increase in participants who indicated they were extremely confident in accurately identifying the CTM using ultrasound following the teaching module.
Discussion: Data from the survey indicates participants increased their knowledge related to using ultrasound to locate the CTM. Data also indicates participants were more confident in their ability to use ultrasound to locate the CTM.
Conclusion: The educational module improved participants’ knowledge and confidence related to using ultrasound to locate the CTM.
Key Words: cricothyroid membrane, ultrasound, palpation, and cricothyrotomy.
Recommended Citation
Gonzalez, Vincente and Fernandez, Jainette, "Using Ultrasound to Identify the Cricothyroid Membrane in Patients with a Difficult Airway: A teaching Module" (2023). Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing Student Projects. 242.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/cnhs-studentprojects/242