Apnea in Beach-Chair Position Status Post Interscalene Block: A Simulation Case for Anesthesia Residents

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Simulation
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Regional anesthesia is preferred for orthopedic surgery when general anesthesia is to be avoided.
• Anesthesia residents must be proficient in managing regional anesthesia complications.
• A simulation addresses apnea following interscalene block in the beach-chair position.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a simulation's effectiveness in training anesthesia residents.
• To improve perioperative management of patients receiving brachial plexus blocks.
• To enhance resident preparedness for managing complications like apnea.

Main Methods:

• A 1-hour simulation session was developed.
• Materials included a case template, critical actions checklist, and evaluation form.
• Trainees demonstrated progress in anesthesiology milestones.

Main Results:

• 15 junior residents completed the simulation.
• Commonly missed actions involved managing incomplete blocks and blood pressure correlation.
• Residents found the simulation a valuable learning experience.

Conclusions:

• Most residents successfully managed apnea post-brachial plexus block.
• The simulation is expected to be used 15-20 times annually.
• This training enhances resident competency in managing regional anesthesia emergencies.