EMAC: A co-operative venture between simulation centres and the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists

Summary The Effective Management of Anaesthetic Crises (EMAC) course was developed in response to several factors. The increased incorporation of workplace-based assessment into the whole assessment process revealed difficulties when trying to deal with important areas such as the management of anaesthetic crises. At the same time the development of simulation centres combined with an increased interest and understanding of the role of human factors in anaesthesia offered a potential solution. A partnership between the Australia and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Australasian simulation centres through a working party and a workshop created a blueprint for a course. Five main topics were identified—human factors, cardiovascular emergencies, airway emergencies, anaesthetic emergencies and trauma. A two and a half day course was developed using simulation, skills stations, presentations, demonstrations and feedback-led discussion as the major teaching methods. The main aim of the course was to teach not only what to do but importantly how to do it. The course was piloted and extensive evaluation yielded positive findings with the result that it was accepted by ANZCA for both trainee and career grade anaesthetists. Further evaluations are in place and will result in a revision of the course.