Learning awake fiberoptic intubation: use of a computerized mannequin simulator teaching

Background: Nasotracheal intubation is the most common method used to ventilate patients for oral maxillofacial surgeries. Fiberoptic intubation (FOI) is an essential skill for a wide range of healthcare providers, including anesthesiologists and emergency medicine physicians. However, proper programs and facilities for intubation training are insufficient. Methods: In this single-center, prospective quality improvement study, we developed a computerized mannequin simulator teaching program to assist training healthcare providers. The program included an instructive where participants were introduced to FOI through instructive videos and handouts. Participants then practiced FOI through case studies with close guidance and timely feedback from facilitators. After the session, participants evaluated the helpfulness of the curriculum for their clinical practice. Results: The program was completed by 33 participants and 30 participants completed the survey. All participants (n=30) agreed that the simulation was realistic enough to engage in learning. Approximately 90% of participants (n=27) felt that the simulation exercise helped improve technical skills and all participants (n=30) agreed that the simulation exercise was clinically applicable. Seventy-seven percent of the participants felt that they would change their practice as a result of the course. Conclusions: Our program demonstrated initial success at improving anesthesia residents’ and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)’ confidence level with FOI knowledge and skills. Further research is needed to prove the benefits of this teaching in real patients and optimize the program.