Multidisciplinary Training in the Treatment of Pediatric Foreign Body Aspiration

Introduction: Foreign body aspiration by a baby is a high-risk and uncommon event. The incidence of pediatric rigid bronchoscopy in our institution is 15/year with approximately 20% of cases being positive for aspirated foreign body. The endoscopic procedure for the foreign body removal is a challenging task for the ENT surgeon, anesthesiologist and OR nurse. Both technical skills and teamwork are crucial for safe procedure. All of these aspects make high fidelity medical simulation a useful tool for technical and teamwork training.

Aims: In this presentation, we will describe the development and implementation of a multidisciplinary teamwork training in pediatric foreign body removal.

Methods: A half-day training program was developed. Training consisted of: 30 minutes lecture on the diagnosis and management of foreign body aspiration, 45 minutes training with the equipment used during the procedure and two scenarios using a simulated infant (SimBaby; Laerdal Medical, Stavanger, Norway) with inhaled foreign body followed by video-based debriefing. Training included aspects of equipment selection, assembly, and use; patient preparation; recognition and management of complications; and team work and leadership skills during endoscopic evaluation and treatment.

Results: Five groups of two ENT residents, two anesthesiology residents and two OR nurses participated in the training held in the operating room. Participant feedback was positive and data will be presented in detail with more data that will be collected during the next 3 months.

Conclusions: Team work and technical skills can be improved with high fidelity medical simulation of pediatric foreign body aspiration.