Validation of a new ENT emergencies course for first-on-call doctors

• Published in: Journal of laryngology and otology Vol. 131; no. 2; p. 106
• Main Authors: Swords, C, Smith, M E, Wasson, J D, Qayyum, A, Tysome, J R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-02-2017
• Subjects: Adult; Airway Obstruction; Clinical Competence; Curriculum; Emergencies; Epistaxis; Female; Foreign Bodies; Humans; Male; Medical Staff, Hospital - education; Middle Aged; Neck Injuries; Otolaryngology - education; Postoperative Complications; Prospective Studies; Respiratory Sounds; Respiratory System; Simulation Training - methods; Single-Blind Method; Tracheostomy; Young Adult; Airway Management; Emergencies; Otolaryngology; Medical; Education
• ISSN: 1748-5460
• DOI: 10.1017/S002221511601001X

First-on-call ENT cover is often provided by junior doctors with limited ENT experience; yet, they may have to manage life-threatening emergencies. An intensive 1-day simulation course was developed to teach required skills to junior doctors.
A prospective, single-blinded design was used. Thirty-seven participants rated their confidence before the course, immediately following the course and after a two-month interval. Blinded assessors scored participant performance in two video-recorded simulated scenarios before and after the course.
Participant self-rated confidence was increased in the end-of-course survey (score of 27.5 vs 53.0; p < 0.0001), and this was maintained two to four months after the course (score of 50.5; p < 0.0001). Patient assessment and management in video-recorded emergency scenarios was significantly improved following course completion (score of 9.75 vs 18.75; p = 0.0093).
This course represents an effective method of teaching ENT emergency management to junior doctors. ENT induction programmes benefit from the incorporation of a simulation component.