Several weeks back, we discussed in a blog post (HALOs & Chainsaws) the never-ending battle against skill decay as a healthcare practitioner. Specifically, we highlighted the challenges associated with maintaining proficiency in performing High Acuity Low Occurrence (HALO) procedures. Over the last couple of months it has been quite exciting to receive the initial two deliveries of packages from Simkit. SimKit is a subscription service that provides physicians with access to an evidence-based curriculum of instructional videos coupled with monthly deliveries of low-fidelity training models for hands-on practice of high stakes procedures.
In Month One we reviewed cricothyrotomy- "an incision made through the skin and cricothyroid membrane to establish a patent airway during certain life-threatening situations, such as airway obstruction by a foreign body, angioedema, or massive facial trauma." Kit pictured below.
Month Two features a review of lateral canthotomy- "the release of the lateral canthal tendon to relieve pressure in the event of an ocular compartment syndrome. Most commonly, ocular compartment syndrome arises due to trauma and subsequent retrobulbar hematoma. These elevated pressures can compress the optic nerve and threaten the patient’s vision if not promptly relieved (source). Kit pictured below.
Thus, we are well equipped to continue to fight the good fight against skill decay and provide our patients with the life-saving, sight-saving, care they deserve.
“We don't rise to the level of our expectations,
we fall to the level of our training.”
~Archilochus
Top Photo by Adrian Smith on Unsplash