An exploration of the cognitive and affective processes for anaesthetists when performing an emergency front of neck airway*

Abstract

Emergency front of neck airway (eFONA) is a potentially lifesaving but very high-stress procedure. We explored the cognitive and affective processes involved via semi-structured interviews with 17 UK anaesthetists who had attempted eFONA within the previous two years. Thematic analyses generated two meta-themes: ‘Making the decision is the hardest part; the doing is easier’ and ‘What helps make the decision?’. We found concerns around scrutiny, lack of a flat hierarchy, unfamiliarity with the situation and the lack of a model for transitioning to eFONA. Culture change, using a shared mental model, priming and emotional disengagement, assisted with eFONA decision-making. Conclusions and implications for practice are presented.