An exploration of the cognitive and affective processes for anaesthetists when performing an emergency front of neck airway
Kidd, Lawrence Wegrzynek, Paulina Newell, Chris Wainwright, Elaine
Kidd, Lawrence
Wegrzynek, Paulina
Newell, Chris
Wainwright, Elaine
Glos Author
Date
2024-10-07
Journal Title
Subject
Type
Journal Article
Collections
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.
Citation
Kidd, L. R., Wegrzynek, P., Newell, C., & Wainwright, E. (2024). An exploration of the cognitive and affective processes for anaesthetists when performing an emergency front of neck airway. Anaesthesia reports, 12(2), e12331. https://doi.org/10.1002/anr3.12331