108 Nerve centre: electronic handover. (3rd November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hill, Francesca; Estfan, Rami
• Is Part Of: BMJ leader. Volume 3(2019)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A41
• Page End: A41
• Publication Date: 2019-11-03
• Subjects: Medical personnel -- Periodicals; Leadership -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Practice -- Management -- Periodicals; Health services administration -- Periodicals; 610.68
• DOI: 10.1136/leader-2019-FMLM.108
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2398-631X

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: As the NHS patient numbers are continually increasing, we are facing unprecedented challenges to improve quality, reduce harm, eliminate waste and improve efficacy. A fundamental part of this is a reliable, safe and effective electronic patient handover system. In order to improve, we rely on confident leaders that can use technologies available to them and effectively integrate these changes into current practice. Methods: We used a current electronic observation platform being used within the hospital to create a digital handover. We had a very short transition with the old free typed Word documents being removed, which ensured that we had 100% uptake of the new system. We had centralised email feedback system to address any issues by accurately recording them and acting appropriately. The approach to measuring the effects of the improvement, were mainly in its continued use. Since quantifying the improvement is not clear cut, we have used staff feedback to highlight the measurable improvements. Results: The project has been running 6 months and has been widely praised. We have successfully undergone a junior doctor rotation in April and August still maintaining standards. We have been approached by clinical leads for other specialities to discuss how this system may be of benefit to their directorates. We have not only achieved what we set out to, but we have used this platform to continue expanding the use of technology for the T&O team and have several new themes to the project in development. Conclusion s: It takes significant effort and resources to bring a project of this magnitude to fruition. Unfortunately, even with significant planning, getting teething problems are unavoidable, but creating the appropriate platform for feedback and acting on it is invaluable. The electronic handover is constantly an evolving work in progress but as yet, we believe making significant improvements to our department and the safety of the patients within it.