Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century. It is poised to reshape medicine, as almost every field of hospital treatment has seen an increase in AI’s presence. In this article, we focus on its impact in the field of anesthesia. We discuss its possible influence on difficult airway management, as it remains one of the most critical and potentially hazardous aspects of anesthesia, often leading to life-threatening complications. The accurate prediction of difficult airways can significantly improve patient safety. We covered the available literature on AI-based models for difficult airway prediction in comparison to traditional forms of airway assessment, as well as the predictive value of ultrasonography. We also address the narrative that AI-based algorithms show high sensitivity and specificity, with which they significantly outperform classical tests based on complex scales and indices.
20 March 2026 in OMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying
Some healthcare professionals, particularly in acute and emergency settings, encounter situations involving death and dying, which can cause intense emotional reactions and challenge their communication skills. However, little is known about how personal and professional support affects their self-assessed competence in end-of-life care. This study aimed to examine the relationships between attitudes toward death and perceived communication competence among 614 healthcare workers from hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency departments, hospices, and nursing homes. Results showed that personnel who discussed death-related topics openly with their relatives reported higher competence in communication and emotional support towards dying patients. Conversely, a lack of family or professional support was associated with lower perceived preparedness. These findings highlight the critical role of social and organizational support in fostering emotional resilience and competence, emphasizing the importance of targeted education and institutional programs that promote openness, confidence, and effective end-of-life communication.