Human factors in ECLS – A keystone for safety and quality – A narrative review for ECLS providers. Issue 1 (5th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Swol, Justyna; Brodie, Daniel; Willers, Anne; Zakhary, Bishoy; Belezzo, Joseph; Shinar, Zachary; Weingart, Scott D.; Haft, Jonathan W.; Lorusso, Roberto; Peek, Giles J.
• Is Part Of: Artificial organs. Volume 46:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 40
• Page End: 49
• Publication Date: 2021-11-05
• Subjects: behavioral skills -- ECLS -- ECMO -- extracorporeal life support -- extracorporeal membrane oxygenation -- human factors -- simulation -- training; Artificial organs -- Periodicals; 617.956
• DOI: 10.1111/aor.14095
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-564X

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Although the technology used for extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has improved greatly in recent years, the application of these devices to the patient is quite complex and requires extensive training of team members both individually and together. Human factors is an area that addresses the activities, contexts, environments, and tools which interact with human behavior in determining overall system performance. Hypothesis: Analyses of the cognitive behavior of ECLS teams and individual members of these teams with respect to the occurrence of human errors may identify additional opportunities to enhance safety in delivery of ECLS. Results: The aim of this article is to support health‐care practitioners who perform ECLS, or who are starting an ECLS program, by establishing standards for the safe and efficient use of ECLS with a focus on human factor issues. Other key concepts include the importance of ECLS team leadership and management, as well as controlling the environment and the system to optimize patient care. Conclusion: Expertise from other industries is extrapolated to improve patient safety through the application of simulation training to reduce error propagation and improve outcomes. Abstract : Analyses of the cognitive behavior of ECLS teams and individual members of these teams regarding human error may identify additional opportunities to enhance safety in the delivery of extracorporeal life support. Simulation and training can reduce error propagation and improve outcomes. The model for improvement (structured approach) and multiple Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act (PDSA) cycles building sequentially on a promising idea. (Adapted from Langley G, et al. The improvement guide: a practical approach to enhancing organizational performance. San Francisco: Jossey‐Bass Publishers; 2009).