Interobserver reliability between a nurse and anaesthetist of tests used for predicting difficult tracheal intubation

Asbury, A.J., Crawford, J.M., Hilditch, W.G. and Kopka, A. (2004) Interobserver reliability between a nurse and anaesthetist of tests used for predicting difficult tracheal intubation. Division of Developmental Medicine, 59(9), pp. 881-884.

Abstract

We examined the interobserver reliability, between a nurse and anaesthetist, of five tests used to predict difficult tracheal intubation: mouth opening; thyromental distance; head and neck movement; mandibular luxation; and assessment of oropharyngeal view. For each test, an anaesthetic nurse and a specialist registrar anaesthetist were trained to use a standard method of examination. Most of the tests had either good or very good reliability. Assessment of mouth opening demonstrated only moderate reliability and assessment of oropharyngeal view demonstrated poor reliability. The interobserver reliability estimates between a nurse and an anaesthetist are similar to those previously demonstrated between two anaesthetists.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Asbury, Dr Adrian
• Authors: Asbury, A.J., Crawford, J.M., Hilditch, W.G., and Kopka, A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
• Journal Name: Division of Developmental Medicine