This chapter describes a second-order adaptive network model for mental processes making use of shared mental models (SMM) for team performance. The chapter illustrates on the one hand the value of adequate SMM’s for safe and efficient team performance and on the other hand in cases of imperfections of such shared team models how this complicates the team performance. To this end, the adaptive network model covers use, adaptation and control of the shared mental model. It is illustrated for an application context of a medical team performing a tracheal intubation, executed by a nurse and a medical specialist. Simulations illustrate how the adaptive network model is able to address the type of complications that can occur in realistic scenarios.

This chapter describes a second-order adaptive network model for mental processes making use of shared mental models (SMM) for team performance. The chapter illustrates on the one hand the value of adequate SMM’s for safe and efficient team performance and on the other hand in cases of imperfections of such shared team models how this complicates the team performance. To this end, the adaptive network model covers use, adaptation and control of the shared mental model. It is illustrated for an application context of a medical team performing a tracheal intubation, executed by a nurse and a medical specialist. Simulations illustrate how the adaptive network model is able to address the type of complications that can occur in realistic scenarios.

Introduction: Electrosurgery is used in 80% of surgical procedures. The technique allows surgeons to skilfully dissect tissues and achieve haemostasis. Since improper use of electrosurgery can lead to serious adverse events, training is required to potentially reduce the number and severity of these events. In this study we evaluate education and training in electrosurgery for surgical residents. Material and methods: Residents from six surgical subspecialties in the Netherlands were invited to anonymously complete a digital questionnaire about training, supervision and adverse events regarding electrosurgery. Results: Of the 197 respondents, 69% had received some form of training; mostly a single theoretical lecture. The feeling of competence in theory and practical skills was positively rated by 39% and 71%, respectively. Moreover, 35% judged the theoretical knowledge of their supervisors as insufficient and 65% changed their electrosurgical application technique to the preference of the supervisor. 30% of the residents had encountered a serious adverse event (e.g., burn wounds) related to the application of electrosurgery. Conclusions: The training of residents in theoretical aspects of electrosurgery is limited. Residents are not satisfied with the acquired theoretical knowledge of themselves and of their supervisors. Since adverse events related to electrosurgery occur frequently, more extensive education for both residents and their supervisors is needed to enhance patient safety