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Anaesthetists' attitudes to intraoperative death.
1St. Thomas' Hospital, Department of Anaesthesia, London, UK. igasbest@hotmail.com
European Journal of Anaesthesiology
|December 2, 2005
Summary
Most anesthesiologists encounter intraoperative patient death, often during emergency vascular surgery. While stressful, most continue working within 24 hours, highlighting the need for departmental support and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Anesthesiology
- Surgical outcomes
Background:
- A previous survey on orthopaedic surgeons' attitudes towards intraoperative death prompted anaesthetists to highlight broader staff impact.
- The emotional and professional effects of intraoperative patient death on anaesthetic staff require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the attitudes and experiences of anaesthetists regarding intraoperative patient death.
- To understand the psychological impact and coping mechanisms of anaesthetists following a patient's death during surgery.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was distributed to 300 anaesthetists across 12 UK anaesthetic departments.
- An 84% response rate (251 participants) provided data on experiences and attitudes towards intraoperative death.
Main Results:
- 92% of surveyed anaesthetists had experienced intraoperative death, predominantly during emergency vascular surgery.
- Most deaths were expected (60%) and non-preventable (77%).
- 87% of respondents administered anaesthesia within 24 hours post-event, with 77% reporting no compromise in professional ability.
Conclusions:
- Intraoperative death is a common, stressful event for anaesthetists, necessitating departmental support systems.
- While 71% found a 24-hour break reasonable, only 25% considered it practicable.
- Departments should consider policies for operation discontinuation and provide support for staff affected by intraoperative death.