Lessons Learned: A Decade of Implementing an Interdisciplinary Airway Training Simulation Module

ImportanceNontechnical skills are crucial in delivering critical and urgent patient care. Through our simulation module, we gear residents and interprofessional personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex airway emergencies and limit human error.ObjectiveDevelop, implement, adapt, and evaluate a novel interdisciplinary and interprofessional crisis resource management (CRM) simulation module for the management of complex airways.DesignSimulation-Based Quality Improvement Project.SettingMcGill University's Arnold and Blema Steinberg Medical Simulation Center and a variety of hospital environments at the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.Participants138 residents (otolaryngology, anesthesia, pediatric emergency medicine) and allied healthcare professionals (nurses and respiratory therapists) participated in 20 unique scenarios.Intervention or ExposuresFrom 2012 to 2022, modules occurred from 4 to 6 half days per year, structured as 3 to 4 simulation scenarios, each followed by debriefing sessions.Main Outcome MeasuresParticipants completed self-assessment forms evaluating module satisfaction, CRM skill development, and narrative commentary. Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained and analyzed.ResultsParticipants reported a significant perceived increase (P < .05) in all nontechnical CRM skills. Participants without previous CRM training reached comparable levels in CRM skills to those with such training. Increasing involvement of allied healthcare professionals, formal debriefing focused on role clarity, and increasing complexity of scenarios are identified as key elements for stressing CRM skills and consolidating lessons learned.ConclusionsThis module is among the first of its kind in otolaryngology given its interprofessional, longitudinal, and evolving nature, while providing an opportunity for residents to develop nontechnical skills through simulation. Its interdisciplinary and interprofessional nature is a key element to its success.RelevanceThis module aims to translate into positive results in patient safety and patient outcomes in challenging airway management scenarios. Implementing modules as continued medical education may help maintain proficiency overtime.