Examining Knowledge Decay in the Anesthesia Provider—An Integrative Review

Background: Knowledge decay can be present in a lot of different careers but it is especially important when affecting the anesthesia provider. Knowledge decay can lead to skill decay. Therefore, it leads to worse patient outcomes. It is important to know how knowledge decay occurs and to know how to prevent it. Purpose: The purpose of this review was to explore the contributing factors of knowledge decay while also examining how different learning activities can be used to prevent it from occurring. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane databases, and Embase. The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology website was also examined. Findings: Knowledge decay usually occurs when either the anesthesia provider is in a new area of practice or when the provider has had a significant amount of time pass since the latest implementation of an anesthesia skill. The type of activity shown to best combat knowledge decay is the use of a simulation-based learning activity. Classroom learning can also help combat knowledge decay, but not to the same extent. Conclusions: The most significant way to prevent knowledge decay in the anesthesia provider is to implement simulation-based learning activities, as well as keep anesthesia providers comfortable with the skills that they practice.