The cognitive aids in medicine assessment tool (CMAT) applied to five neonatal resuscitation algorithms

Objective:the international liaison committee on resuscitation (ilcor) provides recommendations on neonatal resuscitation training and practice, which includes a template for a decision-making algorithm. we evaluated the design properties of the ilcor algorithm and four adaptations by member resuscitation organizations using the validated cognitive aids in medicine assessment tool (cmat).study design:two experts rated five neonatal resuscitation algorithms against the cmat and against medical device design criteria.results:the ilcor algorithm scored 32 of a possible 60 cmat points, showing an adherence rate to cmat of 53%. the ilcor algorithm scored higher than the design variations by member organizations. nonetheless, there are design limitations in the ilcor algorithm.conclusion:in principle, cognitive aids can improve neonatal resuscitation team performance; however, a considered design process that incorporates the full complexity of the ‘procedure as performed’ is needed to improve future versions of the algorithm for incorporation in international guidelines.