TwitchView(c) Monitor Use for Quantitative Neuromuscular Monitoring: An Objective Structured Clinical Evaluation

Neuromuscular paralysis is an integral aspect of anesthesia. Muscle relaxation is implemented to provide a suitable surgical environment, aid in intubation, and enhance respiratory compliance (Cook & Simons, 2022). Neuromuscular monitoring is often used for patients undergoing general anesthesia. Proper neuromuscular monitoring is essential when managing a surgical patient undergoing general anesthesia. Anesthesia providers are responsible for knowing the theory behind neuromuscular monitoring and the appropriate execution of placement, monitoring, and interpretation of monitoring devices. Quantitative neuromuscular monitoring is a newer technology that can provide definitive numerical data regarding neuromuscular blockade. Implementing the quantitative neuromuscular monitor can potentially reduce the likelihood of adverse events related to residual paralysis. Without proper application and interpretation of quantitative neuromuscular monitoring, patients are at an increased risk of adverse events, leading to poor patient outcomes and putting hospital facilities under further financial burden. Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a versatile multipurpose evaluative tool for evaluating healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. Due to the nuance of the TwitchView(c) quantitative neuromuscular monitor, The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) lacks a standard clinical evaluation tool for placement, monitoring, and interpretation. Therefore, an OSCE for TwitchView(c) quantitative neuromuscular monitor use was developed using evidence-based knowledge. A panel of experts of clinically practicing Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) familiar with the TwitchView(c) monitor evaluated the OSCE for its competency. Survey results proved the OSCE was clinically competent and represented doctoral-level work.