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A novel method of measuring cricoid force.
1North Bristol NHS Trust, Frenchay Hospital, Frenchay Park Road, Bristol, BS16 1LE, UK.
Anaesthesia
|April 10, 2002
Summary
Applying cricoid pressure correctly prevents gastric regurgitation. This study found that using floor scales to measure force, by aiming for a 3 kg reduction in displayed weight, is a valid and effective training method for anaesthetic assistants.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Patient Safety
- Medical Training
Background:
- Cricoid pressure is crucial for preventing gastric content regurgitation during anesthesia.
- Effective application requires a specific force, typically 30 N (3 kg) for unconscious patients.
- Accurate force measurement during training is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of using floor scales to measure applied cricoid pressure.
- To compare this method with established training techniques.
- To determine if floor scales provide a valid and predictable force measurement.
Main Methods:
- Forty subjects applied cricoid pressure to a model on three separate occasions.
- Force measurements were taken before and after practice, and using floor scales.
- Subjects applied force until floor scales indicated a 3 kg reduction in their weight.
Main Results:
- Subject performance in applying correct cricoid force improved after practice.
- Using floor scales to guide force application resulted in predictable and accurate pressure.
- The floor scale method demonstrated a significant improvement in performance.
Conclusions:
- Floor scales offer a practical and valid tool for measuring and training cricoid pressure application.
- This method aids anaesthetic assistants in achieving the recommended 30 N (3 kg) force.
- Utilizing floor scales enhances the effectiveness of cricoid pressure training.