Increasing health care providers' knowledge of tracheostomy and laryngectomy

Abstract

BackgroundThe differences between tracheostomy and total laryngectomy are frequently misunderstood by healthcare professionals. Insufficient knowledge can potentially result in life‐threatening consequences in the event of an emergent airway situation.MethodsA seven‐question assessment of providers' anatomical knowledge and airway management was completed prior to and following a standardized one‐hour didactic lecture.ResultsForty‐six participants completed the pre‐ and post‐assessment. There were 20 (43.5%) ENT ICU/IMC Staff (EBU), 20 (43.5%) Florida Surgical Center Staff (FSC), and 6 (13%) Anesthesia providers (Anes). Pre‐lecture score average was 44.7% across all providers, significantly improving to 83.8% post‐lecture (p < 0.001). Nursing staff from the Otolaryngology ICU, and OR staff, had significant improvement in knowledge base (p < 0.001). Anesthesia providers showed improvement, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.052).ConclusionsDidactic lectures are a simple and low‐cost option with significant potential in improving provider knowledge on these critical topics and improve patient care by non‐otolaryngology providers.