Low‐Fidelity Simulation of Airway Emergencies

Objective Junior trainees are commonly expected to manage airway emergencies with very little prior experience. The aim of this simulation training is to: 1) Be able to increase the confidence of participants in managing airway emergencies with respect to tracheostomies. 2) Learn the principles of performing a surgical cricothyroidomy. Method Design: Survey. Tertiary otolaryngology center. Junior doctors otolaryngology and anaesthesia. A half‐day program in managing airway emergencies. Surgical cricothyroidotomy was taught (Killick artificial larynx). Algorithms on 2 complete airway scenarios (blocked/displaced tracheostomy and “can’t intubate, can’t ventilate”) were completed. Confidence in managing airway emergencies was evaluated (Likert scale). Results Previous exposure to airway emergencies was variable between the trainees. Universally, the trainees described a marked improvement in confidence following the practical and moulage sessions. Videos from these sessions will be available online to serve as a future teaching resource. The low‐fidelity airway simulation has since been rolled out through regional hospitals led by senior residents, highlighting the utility of delivering basic airway training in a cost‐effective manner. Conclusion A low‐fidelity simulation‐based training of airway emergencies can be effective in improving junior otolaryngology residents’ confidence, knowledge and technical skills. Further reinforcement of clinical and decision‐making skills in realistic training scenarios may be achieved through high‐fidelity simulation training.