Ensuring the safety of pediatric patients with sickle cell disease during anesthesia care can be a complex and demanding task, but what if you had a detailed roadmap to navigate this critical process? Join us as we unpack essential strategies based on the June 2024 APSF Article, “Preoperative Transfusion and Sickle Cell Disease in the Pediatric Patient” by Rahul Baijal, Priti Dalal, and Megha Kanjia, specifically tailored for pediatric anesthesia care. We break down the crucial factors like sickle cell genotype, baseline hemoglobin levels, and disease severity, offering a comprehensive guide f ..read more

Join us on the Anesthesia Patient Safety Podcast as we confront a critical patient safety issue: the recurring wrong drug, wrong route errors involving Tranexamic acid (TXA) and Bupivacaine. Elizabeth Rebello, an anesthesiologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, sheds light on this alarming trend where lookalike vials lead to catastrophic outcomes, including paralysis and death. Learn why this issue demands urgent action and the steps that are essential for anesthesia professionals to prevent such devastating mistakes. We'll uncover real-world incidents and delve into the ..read more

Unlock the secrets of enhancing perioperative patient safety with insights from experts in anesthesiology and critical care. Join us as we welcome Dr. Debnath Chatterjee, the editor-in-chief of OpenAnesthesia, who sheds light on the incredible educational resources available on the platform. From peer-reviewed mini-reviews to engaging podcasts and vodcasts, discover how OpenAnesthesia is making a global impact, benefiting both trainees and seasoned clinicians. We are excited to share one of the OpenAnesthesia Ask the Experts Podcasts on our show today. Journey with us into the realm of pedia ..read more

What if the prone position during anesthesia is more hazardous than you think? Equip yourself with crucial knowledge about the overlooked risks and physiologic changes associated with prone positioning during surgery and procedures. This episode uncovers the some of the dangers such as peripheral nerve injuries, postoperative vision loss, and significant hemodynamic shifts that can endanger patient safety. Our discussion illuminates the necessity for anesthesia professionals to maintain heightened vigilance and adopt preventive measures. We'll also explore the complex physiologic alterations ..read more

Ever wondered about the underappredicated dangers of prone positioning during surgery? Join me, Alli Bechtel, as we navigate the complexities and risks of managing patients in this critical position. From pressure-related injuries to the eyes, nose, and shoulders, to nerve ischemia and shoulder dislocations, we'll cover it all. In this episode, inspired by Taizoon Dhoon and colleagues' article "The Underappreciated Dangers of the Prone Position," we’ll dissect the physiologic changes that can lead to severe complications if not properly managed. This is an essential listen for anyone involved ..read more

Discover the essential elements of a high-functioning anesthesia care team with our special guest Matthew Sherrer from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In an episode that could redefine your understanding of teamwork in healthcare, we delve into the phenomenon of 'trust fractures' and their profound impact on patient safety. The authors offer rich insights from his experience, drawing striking parallels between aviation disasters like Korean Air Flight 801 and the critical importance of communication within medical teams. Prepare to be enlightened as we explore the sobering reality of ..read more

Embark on a journey through the interplay of teamwork, civility, and patient safety with our esteemed guests, Matt Sherrer and Mitch Tsai from the Fresh Flow podcast, and emergency medicine savant Chris Turner.  The conversation navigates the treacherous waters of workforce shortages and academic anesthesiology pressures, unearthing strategies to foster a thriving professional climate where mutual respect reigns supreme. Feel the pulse of our professional interactions as we delve into reputation—your very own "theme tune" that echoes in the corridors of your workplace. We examine the sub ..read more

Ever found yourself grappling with the complexities of peripheral nerve blocks and patient safety? This episode is a treasure trove of insights as we unpack the February 2024 APSF newsletter article by the esteemed trio Christina Ratto, Joseph Szokol, and Paul Lee, shedding light on the crucial precautions necessary for regional anesthesia procedures. Get ready for an enriching conversation with Paul Lee, Division Chief of Regional Anesthesia and Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology at Keck Medical Center, as he shares valuable personal experiences and stresses the need for meticulou ..read more

Welcome to the next installment of the Anesthesia Patient Safety podcast hosted by Alli Bechtel.  This podcast is an exciting journey towards improved anesthesia patient safety. We are talking about the anesthesia patient safety implications of non-surgical cosmetic enhancements including permanent jewelry, nail polish, and gel manicures. It is vital for anesthesia professionals to perform a complete and sensitive preoperative assessment, provide information about potential adverse events, and maintain vigilance during the perioperative period to keep patients safe. This is another area ..read more

Welcome to the next installment of the Anesthesia Patient Safety podcast hosted by Alli Bechtel.  This podcast is an exciting journey towards improved anesthesia patient safety. We are turning the page in the February 2024 APSF Newsletter to discuss non-surgical cosmetic enhancements and anesthesia patient safety implications. Today, we are reviewing the considerations for neurotoxin injections, such as Botox, eyelash extensions, and oral and facial piercings for Part 1 of our 2-Part series. Spoiler alert: Asking patients to remove eyelash extensions or oral and facial piercings preopera ..read more