Anaesthetic risk associated with tracheostomy speaking valve
SCIDUA case prompts safety alert on tracheostomy speaking valve
A recent SCIDUA case has prompted this safety alert regarding the Passy Muir Speaking Valve (PMSV) in which a patient death was directly attributable to this piece of equipment.
The PMSV is the most commonly used speaking valve for tracheostomy and ventilator-dependent patients. It can be mistaken for a filter and can connect directly to the anaesthetic circuit.
Anaesthetists commonly encounter patients with tracheostomies, and knowledge about the existence and functioning of this valve is essential.
SCIDUA has developed this Tracheostomy Alert Information Sheet with clinical recommendations.
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The following candidates have been successful in the 2025.1 final examination.
After 20 months since commencement the Inquiry’s final report was released on 16 May 2025, outlining 41 recommendations across 12 key areas.
Professor Kate Leslie AO FAHMS is the recipient of the 2025 American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Award for Excellence in Research.