Malignant Hyperthermia: Improving Provider Preparedness through Biannual Education

Abstract

Purpose: The focus of the quality improvement (QI) project was to improve provider preparedness for malignant hyperthermia (MH) by increasing exposure and experience through biannual education.Background: Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare hypermetabolic medical emergency that will result in significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. MH is caused by a mutation in the ryanodine receptor (RYR1). When the defected RYR1 is exposed to triggering agents, it causes a continuous release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum leading to sustained contraction of the muscle. Methods: A descriptive design was used for this QI project in Mesa, Arizona. A post-intervention survey assessed the level of knowledge retained after biannual education, perception of preparedness, usefulness of an MH flowchart, and benefit of biannual education. MH PowerPoint education and stimulated scenario was provided prior to the QI project in March 2021. A second education session was delivered in person at the facility using the same PowerPoint presentation on November 8, 2021. The sample size included 20 participants. Data was collected through a post-intervention survey accessed through a QR code provided and through paper copies. Results: The QI project found that participants agreed that biannual education was beneficial. The key findings also included correct identification of trigger agents and MH treatment, location of MH carts and flowchart, and increased MH management confidence. Conclusion: The QI project found that participants agreed that biannual MH education was beneficial and improved confidence, which helps provider’s to be better prepared for an MH emergency. Participants found the MH Development Tool useful, and it was laminated and placed in the MH cart to be utilized during an MH crisis.