Improved skill for tracheal intubation using optical stylets through remote training model: a before and after...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anesthesiology
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Conducting in-person medical training during the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges.
• A novel remote, hands-on training model was developed to address these challenges for optical stylet-guided tracheal intubation.
• This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this remote training approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a remote hands-on training program on anesthesiology trainees' tracheal intubation competency.
• To determine if the training model improved theoretical knowledge and self-efficacy in using optical stylets.
• To validate a new training methodology for airway management skills in a pandemic setting.

Main Methods:

• A before-and-after interventional study design was employed.
• Participants underwent a 4-week remote training course including theoretical and preclinical/clinical components.
• Tracheal intubation competency was assessed via video recordings using a standardized tool (max score 29) pre- and post-training.
• Knowledge and self-efficacy were measured using pre- and post-training questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two participants (mean age 33.5 years) completed the training.
• Overall intubation competency scores significantly improved from 14.6±3.7 to 25.3±2.6 (P < 0.0001).
• Significant improvements were observed in anatomical identification, hand-eye coordination, and optimized intubation conditions (P < 0.0001).
• Multiple-choice questionnaire scores increased from 58.2%±8.2% to 85.2%±7.2% (P < 0.0001).
• Self-efficacy scores rose significantly from 2.5±1.2 to 4.4±0.6 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

• The remote, progressively advanced hands-on training model successfully enhanced tracheal intubation competency.
• This training approach proved effective in improving skills and confidence despite the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The model offers a viable solution for maintaining and advancing critical procedural skills in challenging circumstances.