Current opinion in anaesthesiology
-
Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Dec 2007
ReviewManaging intergenerational differences in academic anesthesiology.
Common definitions for workplace generations are the silent generation (born 1925-1945), the baby boomer generation (1946-1962), generation X (1963-1981), and generation Y (1982-2000). Distinct motivational and value perceptions stereotype generations. This review defines the characteristics of workplace generations today and provides insight into how differences influence the workplace environment. ⋯ Understanding, improved communication strategies, mentorship, and flexibility in methods employed to achieve common goals are most likely to capture the interest and cooperation of members of generation X and possibly Y. Future studies should test effects of particular interventions on outcome in terms of recruitment and performance milestones.
-
Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Dec 2007
ReviewThe European Working Time Directive: effect on education and clinical care.
In 2009 the European Working Time Directive limits the weekly working hours to an average of 48 in all European Union member states. The recent published effects on education and patient care are discussed. ⋯ There are less measured clinical facts than political statements published. The actual working time directives in the European Union member states are inconsistent and further political development on this topic across the European Union remains unclear.
-
To summarize recent findings for the optimal airway device for patients in the operating room and for medical personnel with limited experience in out-of-hospital airway management. ⋯ Extraglottic airway devices are increasingly used for airway management not only in patients for elective surgery, but also in out-of-hospital settings, when less experienced personnel have to secure the airway.
-
Improving perioperative efficiency and throughput has become increasingly important in facilitating the fast-track recovery process following ambulatory surgery. This review focuses on the important role played by the anesthesiologist as a perioperative physician in fast-track ambulatory surgery. ⋯ The pivotal role played by the anesthesiologist as the key perioperative physician in facilitating the recovery process has assumed increased importance in the current outpatient fast-track recovery environment. The choice of premedication, anesthetic, analgesic and antiemetic drugs, as well as cardiovascular, hormonal and fluid therapies, can all influence the ability to fast-track outpatients after ambulatory surgery.
-
Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Dec 2007
ReviewAnesthesia and sedation outside the operating room: how to prevent risk and maintain good quality.
The purpose of this review is to define risks for anesthesia and sedation outside the operating room, and to suggest how to prevent these risks and maintain quality of care. ⋯ Complications of anesthesia outside the operating room are not well studied, although a few closed claims are appearing in the literature suggesting there is a higher risk. Topics discussed focus on MRI and surgical procedures, principally dental, plastic, and gastrointestinal endoscopy. Risk factors for these procedures are identified and quantified and measures to reduce them discussed, with emphasis on full oxygenation and end-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring. Nonoperating room anesthesia requires skills, experience and organization. Quality can only be assured by ensuring all alternative locations adhere to operating room standards.