Critical Care

Could a helmet interface reduce intubation compared with a face mask for non-invasive ventilation? This 2016 appraisal examines striking results from a small, early-stopped ARDS trial, alongside baseline differences, potential bias and the difficulty of applying ICU findings to emergency department patients.

Could erythropoietin protect the brain after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest? This 2016 appraisal examines a French randomised trial that found no neurological or survival advantage and more adverse events, including thromboembolism, highlighting the gap between biological promise and demonstrated patient benefit.

A participant’s report from the airway masterclass at SMACC Dublin in 2016, covering intubation, surgical airway practice, nasendoscopy and scenario simulation. The account emphasises rehearsal, teamwork and shared understanding alongside the technical skills, with links to further teaching resources.

Rich Carden and Chris Gray reflect on SMACC Dublin in 2016 from a trainee perspective. Their account connects clinical debate and diagnostic reasoning with fear, wellbeing, gender equity and the personal encounters that made the conference a reflective as well as educational experience.

What can hospital educators learn from prehospital training? Drawing on her experience with Sydney HEMS, Natalie May explores team induction, maintaining competence and a supportive learning culture, asking how simulation, regular practice and case review could strengthen education inside the emergency department.

Natalie May’s SMACC Dublin workshop notes review the 2015 paediatric and neonatal resuscitation guidelines. This historical teaching resource covers airway and ventilation, unexpected deliveries, care after resuscitation and communication with families, explaining why newborn resuscitation needs particular preparation.