Safer Care Through Shared Perspectives: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Patient and Interprofessional Insights on Improving Airway Practices

Although the ABC’s (Airway, Breathing, and Circulation) are emphasized in emergency response, there is a significant gap in understanding of lived experiences of individuals with complex airways and those who care for them. This study investigated patient and interprofessional perspectives critical to improving airway safety. A survey-based, mixed-methods approach was employed to explore airway safety and experiences.Methods/methodology: A Qualtrics survey was disseminated to a global learning community assessing knowledge gaps, clinical incidents, and preferred terminology to promote effective communication and standardization. Qualitative insights were evaluated from open-ended survey responses with patients, caregivers, and interprofessional team members to define communication barriers, emotional burdens, and systemic gaps in care. Thematic analysis and statistical methods integrated these findings, ensuring robust data triangulation. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants provided informed consent.Results: Survey data from 1,195 participants residing in 17 countries included nurses, physicians, respiratory therapists, speech language pathologists, patients, and care partners. Data provided quantitative and qualitative insights into specific knowledge gaps among healthcare professionals and patients regarding airway safety. Findings underscored the critical importance of universally understood and patient-centered terminology. Qualitative analysis captured the voices of patients, care partners, and health professionals, revealing the profound burdens associated with complex aerodigestive anatomy or ventilator dependence. Themes included safety, the emotional toll of communication barriers, lack of care coordination, and the need for systems-based solutions. Interprofessional collaboration emerged as a cornerstone for mitigating risks, fostering patient-centered care, and driving holistic recovery.Conclusions, implications, and curiosities: This research calls for a paradigm shift centered on shared understanding, standardized language, and interdisciplinary education to improve patient outcomes and interprofessional communication. Awareness campaigns and collaborative initiatives, including standardized communication and data-driven solutions exemplify scalable approaches to translating these findings into practice. Through actionable recommendations, this study aims to inspire progress in airway safety and patient care.