Cross-skilling

11 March 2020

In the next week it is very likely that anaesthesia and intensive care medicine will be required to come together to deliver the critical care support necessary for patients suffering from COVID-19 infections.

Although there is commonality in skill sets between the specialties it will be important that individuals consider how best to utilise their current knowledge and skills, if asked to support critical care delivery, and to identify in advance any particular aspects of practice for update.

There are a number of resources, including e-learning modules (eICM) at ficmlearning.org, at the website of the Intensive Care Society, and here this website will provide the latest guidance as and when it becomes available.

Some organisations are encouraging their anaesthetic colleagues to attend ICM ward rounds if scheduled operating is cancelled or during non clinical time. It is important that everyone face fit tested and that they are familiar with appropriate PPE donning and doffing and we would encourage you to ensure everyone is trained.

ENDS