Improving the use of phlebotomy services in a paediatric inpatient setting. Issue 2 (3rd January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pitchforth, Jacqueline; Lemer, Claire
• Is Part Of: BMJ open quality. Volume 2:Issue 2(2013)
• Publication Date: 2014-01-03
• Subjects: Medical care -- Quality control -- Periodicals; 362.106805
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjquality.u202230.w1115
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-6641

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of this project was to improve the use of the current Paediatric Phlebotomy service. The main problem identified was the lack of a system to notify medical teams of unsuccessful blood requests. A phlebotomy process map was constructed to help analyse reasons why failure to notify occurred. Pre and post intervention audits were conducted using the number of unsuccessful blood requests notified as a baseline measurement. The initial intervention was modified based on feedback during the process. A 44% improvement in the number of unsuccessful blood requests notified and a potential cost savings of £6240 was demonstrated in the post-intervention audit. Further work is required as to whether these improvements can be increased, sustained and be cost effective.