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COVID-19 Intubation Safety: A Multidisciplinary, Rapid-Cycle Model of Improvement
Amy Tronnier1, Collin F Mulcahy, Ayal Pierce
1The George Washington University, Washington, DC The George Washington University Hospital, Washington, DC.
This study created a quality improvement framework for COVID-19 intubation safety. A multidisciplinary model enhanced provider safety and adherence to protocols during the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic heightened risks for healthcare providers during aerosolizing procedures like intubation.
- Dynamic protocols were necessary to maximize provider safety and mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
- Intubation procedures pose a significant risk of viral transmission due to aerosol generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a quality improvement framework ensuring safe intubation practices for healthcare providers.
- To describe a multidisciplinary model for rapid-cycle improvements and gap analysis in COVID-19 intubation safety.
- To enhance adherence to safety protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of an Intubation Safety Checklist and standardized documentation template.
- Real-time feedback mechanisms and weekly multidisciplinary team meetings for data review.
- Utilizing a rapid-cycle improvement approach for continuous process enhancement.
Main Results:
- The study captured 68 intubations in patients suspected of having COVID-19.
- High compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) was observed.
- Identified specific areas for further process improvement in intubation safety.
Conclusions:
- An interdisciplinary workgroup is crucial for enhancing provider safety during intubations.
- Integration of standardized processes improves adherence to safety protocols.
- The developed model offers a framework for enhancing intubation safety during infectious disease pandemics.
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