A simulation-based evaluation of a graphic cardiovascular display.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Simulation
• Cardiopulmonary Monitoring

Background:

• Graphic displays can aid in early adverse event detection and management.
• Previous research indicated graphical presentation of cardiovascular variables improved simulated ischemic event detection.
• A revised graphical cardiovascular display (GCD) was evaluated for hemodynamic variables, with or without a pulmonary artery catheter.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of a revised GCD in recognizing various simulated adverse cardiopulmonary events.
• To determine if the revised GCD improves detection and management of adverse events.
• To assess if the revised GCD impacts perceived workload.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen anesthesiologists and residents participated in a simulation-based evaluation.
• Participants were divided into two groups, managing six simulated adverse events.
• The GCD was utilized in half the simulations; interventions were recorded, transcribed, and rated by blinded experts.

Main Results:

• Anesthesiologists using the GCD were rated more effective overall and in specific scenarios.
• The GCD influenced the time to detect and treat critical events.
• No significant differences in perceived workload were found between groups.

Conclusions:

• Treatment interventions using the GCD were rated superior by expert anesthesiologists.
• The GCD demonstrated a modest improvement in detecting myocardial ischemia and elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure.
• The GCD shows potential as a valuable tool for monitoring patients during adverse cardiopulmonary events.