by anyonecanintubate | May 18, 2014 | Airway Management, Airway obstruction, Anesthesia, Patient Safety
One of the more frightening events in anesthesia is laryngospasm – the protective, reflex, spasmodic closure of the vocal cords that occurs when the vocal cords are stimulated. When laryngospasm occurs, vocal cord closure can be so forceful that it can prevent all ventilation or even the passage of the endotracheal tube. Life-threatening hypoxia can quickly follow. Other potential complications include post obstructive pulmonary edema, and possibly even cardiac arrest. This post discusses the different muscle actions that combine to make laryngospasm create dangerous airway obstruction.
by anyonecanintubate | Jun 30, 2013 | Anesthesia in Developing World, Patient Safety
Given the difficulty of working with a volunteer team in the developing world, how do we take strangers and quickly transform them into a cohesive, well-functioning team in a difficult environment? Let’s look at some of the tools we use.
by anyonecanintubate | Jun 28, 2013 | Airway Management, Anesthesia in Developing World, Patient Safety
While power failures in hospitals in the United States are thankfully rare, they do happen. This discussion offers tips on dealing with power failure in the OR while working in the developing world.
by anyonecanintubate | Jun 28, 2013 | Anesthesia, Anesthesia in Developing World, Patient Safety
The need to change a tank in the middle of the case can happen anywhere to anyone. But if you´re prepared, it will go smoothly and your patient will remain safe.
by anyonecanintubate | May 18, 2013 | Airway Management, Patient Safety
Postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression is common and results from an imbalance in the forces of arousal vs the forces of sedation. Opioid induced respiratory depression requiring treatment can occur to any patient at any time, and under the care of any provider — from novice to experienced. You must understand the forces of sedation and arousal and be constantly vigilant to keep your patients safe.
by anyonecanintubate | Mar 30, 2013 | Intubation, Patient Safety
Persistent endotracheal tube leaks may require the need to exchange the endotracheal tube in a critical patient or situation. The differential diagnosis of such leaks is discussed. In addition, a case regarding a patient biting a pinhole in the pilot tube of their endotracheal tube is presented.
