Enhancing hot debrief in obstetric anaesthesia:

A survey of current views and the use of ‘Obs-CARES’ as a structured mnemonic

Introduction

Debrief is a unique, interactive, structured team conversation used to reflect on actions, events and thought processes after a stressful or traumatic event. Hot debrief occurs minutes to hours after the event and focuses on emotional support, identifying immediate needs for environmental modifications and to signpost the team to local wellbeing services.

The delivery suite is subject to frequent critical and stressful events due to the inherent unpredictable nature of obstetrics and the ever-increasing percentage of patients classified as high-risk [1]. Hot debrief may have a key role in supporting staff wellbeing and promoting an open safety culture in the demanding practice of obstetric anaesthesia.