Tracheostomy and laryngectomy survey: do front-line emergency staff appreciate the difference?
J Laryngol Otol
; 126(6): 605-8; quiz 608, 2012 Jun.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-22643204
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
In an emergency scenario, it is vital to appreciate the difference between a laryngectomy and a tracheostomy so that oxygen can be administered in an appropriate manner. This survey aimed to ascertain the level of emergency healthcare personnel's knowledge with regards to distinguishing between a tracheostomy and a laryngectomy patient, and the emergency management of such patients.METHODS:
Forty-four accident and emergency staff (28 doctors, nine nurses and seven paramedics) within one Foundation Trust were invited to complete a questionnaire to ascertain (1) their confidence at differentiating between a laryngectomy and tracheostomy stoma; (2) knowledge of the appropriate site for oxygen delivery if needed; and (3) overall level of training on this subject.RESULTS:
There were significant gaps in knowledge, particularly with regards to fundamental differences between a tracheostomy and a laryngectomy; less than 5 per cent were able to describe the anatomical difference. Only 41 per cent correctly identified the route of oxygen administration in laryngectomy patients.CONCLUSION:
In this cohort of emergency staff, the fundamental difference between a laryngectomy and a tracheostomy was poorly understood. This lack of awareness of front-line emergency staff needs to be addressed in order to maximise patient safety.
Texto completo:
1
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Traqueostomía
/
Competencia Clínica
/
Personal de Salud
/
Obstrucción de las Vías Aéreas
/
Tratamiento de Urgencia
/
Laringectomía
Tipo de estudio:
Etiology_studies
/
Prognostic_studies
/
Qualitative_research
Límite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Año:
2012
Tipo del documento:
Article