The National Clinical Programme in Surgery (NCPS) has launched a new HSE eLearning Module which provides education on the management of neck haematomas when they occur on the ward after thyroid surgery.

Neck haematomas are rare but life-threatening and can occur in approximately 1-3% of patients who have thyroid surgery. The haematomas can enlarge rapidly and compromise the patient’s airway requiring urgent intervention. There are a number of factors that can increase the risk including age, hypertension, Grave’s disease or history of previous thyroid surgery.

The eLearning module aims to provide education on recognition, escalation, and the management of this condition and is recommended for all doctors and nurses involved in the post-operative care of all patients who have undergone thyroid surgery.

The module was funded by the HSE and its development was led by the National Clinical Advisor for Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Professor Michael Walsh. It was developed by Aurion Learning and was supported by an expert working group that included a range of ENT consultants, nurses and anaesthesiologists.

Shared commitment

Professor Walsh, National Clinical Advisor for Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, NCPS, said: “The development of this eModule was a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders and the NCPS is grateful to all those who contributed to this work, particularly to Mr Greg Sadler Consultant Endocrine Surgeon, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK and Mr Shad Khan Consultant Endocrine and General Surgeon, Oxford University Hospitals for the use of their video.

“This module is easily accessible through HSELanD for all relevant healthcare staff and should give staff the knowledge and confidence to act quickly and safely in this emergency scenario which will ultimately save lives.”

Professor Deborah McNamara, President, RCSI, said: “I welcome the launch of this important module which will equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge to help manage this life-threatening condition when it occurs. I commend Professor Michael Walsh and everyone involved for the collaborative approach they have taken to the development of this module which reflects the shared commitment of RCSI and the HSE to driving improvements in surgical care for the benefit of patients.”

Integration across care

The National Clinical Programme in Surgery is a strategic initiative between the HSE and RCSI. The programme aims to design and implement change initiatives to improve and standardise the quality of care and access for all patients in a cost-effective manner.

The programme works closely with other National Clinical and Care Programmes under the governance of the HSE CCO to ensure integration across multiple areas of care.

Dr Siobhán Ni Bhriain, HSE National Clinical Director Integrated Care, welcomed the launch, noting “the integrated approach taken in the development of the protocol, ensuring that it meets the highest standards internationally. It demonstrates the importance of continued collaboration between the HSE and RCSI in the development of these guidelines to support the delivery of high quality, standardised clinical care. Congratulations to Prof. Walsh and team and the NCPS for bringing this to completion”.