WP2: Competence Description

Aims

To define and describe the cognitive, motor, and communication elements which are critical for performance of spinal anaesthesia safely and effectively. To identify human factors (e.g. fatigue, anxiety) which influence learning and performance of spinal anaesthesia. To integrate the above factors in a problem set which can be used for the development of a CAP for spinal anaesthesia (in WP 3).

Start/finish date (overall duration)

November 07 - April 08

Role and tasks of partners involved

CUH Dept of Anaesthesia (lead), IDC, and the University of Pecs will participate. CUH and IDC will jointly design a study using standard qualitative research tools to elicit the components of learning and performing spinal anaesthesia. The study will be performed in Cork and Pecs and the results analysed using commercially available software by investigators at the IDC and in CUH. Clearly it will be necessary to consult with our colleagues in UniGraz as well as members of the expert advisory group.

Working methods and techniques

The work will comprise five elements:

i. Literature search. (November 07- Jan 08)
ii. A competence "mapping" exercise (Nov 07 - Feb 08)
ii. Qualitative research tools (preliminary, focused questionnaires and focus groups) will be applied through the national anaesthetic training bodies in Hungary and Ireland. The objectives will be to fully describe the competence, "spinal anaesthesia" in terms of performance and learning (Jan - Mar 08).
iv. Observational analysis of naïve and expert medical practitioners in simulated and clinical environments (Jan -Feb 08).
v. Engagement with the EAG to develop a set of "metrics" which represent competence (Jan - Feb 08).
vi. Data analysis and report.

Expected outcomes/results

1. A comprehensive description of the competence of spinal anaesthesia with reference to the its determinants of learning.
2. A problem set which address (singly or in combination) the motor, cognitive, communication and "human" factors which arise during performance of spinal anaesthesia.

Quality management tools

Protocol, design and results review by the Expert Advisory Panel. Independent analysis of the video, audio material and focus group discussion notes. Independent review of the Hungarian-English translations for coherence and clarity.