Self-directed simulation-based training of emergency cricothyroidotomy: a route to lifesaving skills

The emergency cricothyroidotomy (EC) is a critical procedure. The high cost of failures increases the demand for evidence-based training methods. The aim of this study was to present and evaluate self-directed video-guided simulation training. Novice doctors were given an individual 1-h simulation training session. One month later, an EC on a cadaver was performed. All EC’s were video recorded. An assessment tool was used to rate performance. Performance was compared with a pass/fail level for the EC. We found a high reliability, based on Pearson’s r (0.88), and a significant progression of skill during training (p < 0.001). Eleven out of 14 succeeded in creating an airway on the cadaver in 64 s (median, range 39–86 s), but only four achieved a passing score. Our 1-h training protocol successfully raised the competence level of novice doctors; however, the training did not ensure that all participants attained proficiency.