Christina J. Yang, MD, Associate Professor of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery      and Pediatrics and Director of the Aerodigestive Program at Montefiore Einstein (ADAM), recently received the prestigious RBaby International Network for Simulation-Based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education (INSPIRE) Research Award. The $6,000 grant will support her multi-institutional project, “PEAK-II: Harnessing Simulation to Promote Airway Emergency Readiness, ” which leverages simulation-based training to enhance clinicians’ preparedness for airway emergencies and improve outcomes for pediatric patients.

In May 2024, the Global Tracheostomy Collaborative hosted a worldwide webinar titled “Incorporating In Situ Simulation as a Tracheostomy Patient Safety/Quality Improvement Tool.” Featured speakers, including Dr. Yang, Bradley Schiff, MD, Director of the Head & Neck Division, and Alice Lee, MD (PGY-3), showcased Montefiore Einstein’s leadership and innovative use of in situ simulation to improve patient safety and outcomes and prevent complications in tracheostomy care. In situ simulation is a powerful tool and can be used to identify latent safety threats related to pediatric tracheostomy management before they cause patient harm. Additionally, in situ simulations can support quality improvement and educational initiatives, allowing healthcare professionals and patients’ families to practice the skills and tasks involved in tracheostomy care.  

For over a quarter of a century, we have been leading the way with medical simulation in otorhinolaryngology by pioneering advanced simulation technologies and techniques to help improve surgical skills training, patient safety and outcomes. We developed simulation models for a variety of otorhinolaryngological procedures, including tracheostomy simulation. We recently co-developed a pediatric tracheostomy emergency readiness assessment tool for in situ simulation and achieved consensus on critical steps setting new standards in tracheostomy care. Our findings were published in Laryngoscope in April 2023. 

Additionally, we have expanded our team this year with the recent appointment of Archana Patel, NP, as our dedicated tracheostomy nurse practitioner. In this role, she oversees the inpatient tracheotomy/tracheostomy care of all tracheostomy inpatients at our Moses Campus, prioritizing patient safety, quality care and education to ensure patients receive the best possible care. 

Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery is a leader in tracheostomy simulation, committed to innovation in otorhinolaryngology and setting new standards for enhanced patient safety and the highest-quality care.