St. Alexius Medical Center Holds EMS Appreciation Night May 21, 2008
by Howard Walth, RN, CEN, CFRN, NREMT-Paramedic, Trauma Coordinator, St. Alexius Medical Center Posted on 5/27/2008
St. Alexius Medical Center broke new ground in how it conducted EMS Appreciation Night. After reviewing charts of trauma patients and listening to concerns from EMS personnel, physicians, medical directors, and ancillary staff it was determined that a night devoted to airway management was prudent. But not in the usual fashion of listening to lectures, this night would be full of practical, hands-on training delivered by a "dream team" of experts experienced in managing difficult airway and with a passion for teaching.
After a blessing, and some pop and pizza, Dr. White, Anesthesiologist presented a recent case involving a difficult airway scenario in a trauma patient. Discussion of the case included an algorithm anyone can use to simplify airway management. Then the real learning started. The participants were divided into groups to rotate through practical stations. They demonstrated bag-valve-mask ventilation on manikins and assisting each other's ventilations; combitube insertion; laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion; surgical airways; pre-hospital continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP); King LT airway use; Flex Guide endotracheal tube introducer on Sim Man; Pediatric airways; and finally the anesthesia department had their "Storz Fiber Optic Intubation Scope" available for use.
Over 30 people were involved in the coordination and delivery of EMS Appreciation Night including EMS Educators, Emergency Physicians, ICU Intensivists, Trauma Surgeons, Anesthesiologists, CRNA's, Student CRNA's, Neonatologists, Pediatric ICU Intensivists, and vendors displaying airway devices. A great deal of learning took place. Thanks to all who participated in this event!
Click here to view the photos and read a description.
Copyright 2008 St. Alexius Medical Center 900 E. Broadway Ave., Bismarck, ND 58501
General Information 701-530-7000 | TDD System 701-530-5555 | Fax 701-530-8984
