The importance of nontechnical skills in leading cardiopulmonary resuscitation teams

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is one of the important clinical competencies for medical trainees. Since the introduction of the first guidelines for CPR in 1966, further research has resulted in more recent updates. The latest in the UK was published in 2015 by the resuscitation council. The multidisciplinary nature of the resuscitation team requires a designated leader, capable of directing the team’s effort and making decisions. There is evidence that leadership makes a difference in the performance of the resuscitation team and the outcome of patients.

End of life care: how do we move forward?

 

Death and dying are inevitable. High quality and accessible palliative and end of life care can help people who are facing progressive life-threatening and life-limiting illness, and those dear to them, by focusing on their quality of life and addressing the problems associated with their situation. This paper draws attention to the scale of the challenge, some of the key areas we could address and the shifts in culture, mindset and leadership approach that are needed.