Evaluating Efficacy and Usability of Screen-Based Simulation in Difficult Airway Algorithm Training for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologists

Abstract

Background

"Cannot ventilate, cannot intubate" is a challenging airway emergency that can lead to negative patient outcomes. Screen-based simulation (SBS) as a learning adjunct could help anesthesia providers improve decision-making skills in difficult airway situations. The goal of this project was to evaluate the usability of a newly designed SBS for learning and reinforcing difficult airway management.

Methods

Seven anesthesia and simulation experts were recruited for this pre-post design project. Participants were pre-briefed, watched scenario one, selected interventions for difficult airway, and time-to-decision was recorded. After debriefing, participants completed a second scenario and time-to-decision was recorded again. A post-simulation survey was conducted to evaluate application usability and gather participant feedback.

Results

All seven participants (100%) completed simulations with a mean System Usability Score of 90.83 (SD = 6.65) and median score of 90, both of which indicated superior usability. The time-to-decision in scenario two decreased significantly (p < .05) between the two scenarios.

Conclusion

In approximately 40 hours and on a low budget, a user-friendly SBS was developed to effectively improve time-to-decision in difficult airway situations.