Question 15

College Answer

Syllabus topic/section:

2.1.19 Intensive Care Procedures.

Aim:

To allow demonstration of knowledge of safety regarding a commonly performed ICU procedure.

Discussion:

A core topic in intensive care practice. Candidates scored high marks for the first part of the question when a comprehensive list was provided. The second part of the question (8/10 marks allocated) asked for steps to prevent or minimise the risk of the identified complications. Some candidates answered with a generic account of how to perform a tracheostomy, rather than referring to the complications previously outlined and addressing each complication in turn (a table format may have been useful to help with this).

Specific oversights: bleeding was usually mentioned as a potential complication however the use of lignocaine with adrenaline to reduce this risk was uncommonly mentioned. Hypoxia was commonly mentioned however performing the procedure on an FiO2 of 100% was uncommonly outlined as a prevention strategy. Use of bronchoscopy and ultrasound were usually outlined, however many candidates did not outline a coagulation status check or withholding of anticoagulants. Fasting or aspiration of gastric content prior to the procedure was uncommonly mentioned, as was aspiration of free air into the syringe when confirming needle placement in the trachea.

Additionally, the most complete answers demonstrated a broad view of strategies (e.g. the requirement for haemodynamic and respiratory optimisation and monitoring during the procedure). Candidates who mentioned team factors, such as role allocation, supervision, checklists gained further marks.

Many candidates addressed their response from the narrow lens of the proceduralist. The second part examination is assessing the ability of the trainee to attain the level of an independent practitioner at the level of a transitional fellow. Broadening your perspective to that of a clinician responsible for the overall conduct and safety of the procedure will both achieve this standard and gain superior marks.
 

Discussion

A tabulated approach sounds like what the examiners were expecting, and the question itself is unusual because these days they usually tell you that they want a table when they want a table. This time it seems they would have preferred  a table, as it would have made the answers easier to mark, and would have established a structure where the candidate does not miss any of the listed items. In general tables are better for everything and the candidates should clearly just get into the mindset of always asking themselves "how is this not a table" when approaching any SAQ. 

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