Place of the Video-laryngoscope in Learning Intubation by Simulation

Simulation is nowadays a widespread teaching method, particularly in airway management. The direct laryngoscope is the most commonly used device for learning intubation. As for the videolaryngoscope, it is mostly used on an advanced level, for teaching difficult laryngoscopy to professionals. Its impact on teaching intubation to beginners remains unclear.

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of the videolaryngoscope on reducing the time needed to intubate on a low-fidelity manikin for beginners.

The investigators conducted a randomised crossover study, which took place in the simulation department of the medical school of Tunis. They used a low-fidelity manikin designed for learning airway management. They included 35 trainees.

The first part of our session consisted in a theoretical training, during which one single instructor exposed the anatomical basis and the material needed: a direct laryngoscope (Macintosh) with a number 3 curved blade, a videolaryngoscope (Med-Captain) with a number 3 curved blade and a number 7 tracheal tube with a stylet.

The second part was the practical training with procedural simulation. The investigators randomized the trainees in two groups.