Cricothyrotomy Simulator Is the Closest Thing to a Real Cric

Realism in your training scenarios is vital, especially when you’re training for situations you don’t often encounter in the field. Those are the skills that erode the fastest, which is why high-quality simulation is so important.

The new and improved Life/form® Cricothyrotomy Simulator from Nasco ensures your staff will be prepared should they face a difficult airway in the field. Daniel J. Pierstorff, advanced life support quality assurance coordinator and a critical care paramedic for Ryan Brothers Ambulance in Wisconsin, says the Cricothyrotomy Simulator is ideal for training on this rarely-used skill because of its realism and anatomical correctness.

“We were actually able to help Nasco develop the latest version, which helped improve our learning and keep our skills up,” he explains. “We don’t get to see or do many crics in the field, or clinically, just due to the advanced airways we have now. It’s definitely a huge tool for us to use to keep up our skills and train our new employees on the proper technique so they don’t forget how to do it.”

The Life/form® Cricothyrotomy Simulator, which will be included in Nasco’s spring catalog, features a realistic appearance, as well as replaceable skin and trachea. Palpable landmarks include the cricoid and thyroid cartilage. The prominentia laryngea is prominent on the hyperextended neck. All landmarks are accurately placed and allow for fast action.

Pierstorff says he particularly likes the new Cricothyrotomy Simulator because it’s able to take a cut-down ET tube instead of just a standard cricothyrotomy or quick cric kit. “The two scenarios we use the most are crush injuries to the neck or severe facial injuries, to where we have to provide the cricothyrotomy, and also burns or inhalation injuries, where we can’t orally intubate or get a tube up high so we have to use the cric. We train with a progression of airways and use the cric trainer as the last resort, just like we’d do in a real patient encounter.”

The Life/form® Cricothyrotomy Simulator comes complete with six skins, six adult cartilage inserts, six child cartilage inserts, instruction guide and a durable carrying case, backed by a five-year warranty.

Visit eNasco.com/healthcare.