[Invasive techniques in emergency medicine. I. Practice-oriented training concept to ensure adequately qualified emergency physicians]

Abstract

Based on written surveys conducted during the series of workshops entitled "Invasive emergency techniques (INTECH)" the aim of this study was to characterize defined qualifications of emergency physicians and to discuss by examples whether strictly practice-oriented workshops represent a suitable means of closing the apparent gaps in training. Our data show clearly that even experienced emergency physicians indicated that they lack training in carrying out preclinical invasive emergency procedures such as chest tube, cricothyrotomy and intraosseous access. Furthermore, they are only very seldom confronted with emergency situations in which these procedures could decidedly affect the survival of a patient and which, at the same time, put them under extremely high emotional pressure. Thus, the didactic concept of continuing education workshops that are strictly practice-oriented and that focus in particular on problem areas in emergency medicine, can contribute significantly to help close the gaps in training and ensure that emergency physicians are highly qualified.