248 Improving Handovers from A Neurosurgical High Dependency Unit to Ward Teams. (4th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Faderani, R; Mohamed, A; Stewart, P
• Is Part Of: British journal of surgery. Volume 108(2021)Supplement 2
• Publication Date: 2021-05-04
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab134.391
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: A good handover is fundamental in providing continuity of care within a multidisciplinary team, allowing for safe and effective management of patients. Method: Handovers between the neurosurgical high dependency unit and the ward team were prospectively evaluated as patients were stepped down over a 6-week period. The handover rate and consequences of poor handovers (missed investigations, referrals, or delayed discharges) were documented. After 6-weeks, handover proforma was introduced and the rates were recalculated. Results: In the initial 6-week period, 36 patients were transferred, with only 2(5.6%) appropriately handed-over. Consequently, 9(26%) patients had delayed scans, 5(15%) missed referrals, and 24(71%) delayed discharges. In the 6-week period following the introduction of the proforma, a total of 28 patients were transferred, with 19(67.8%) documented handovers. Consequently, 1(3.5%) patient had a scan delay, 0 missed referrals and only 2(7%) patients had delayed discharges. Conclusions: By raising awareness of handovers and introducing a proforma, we improved documented handovers by 62.3% whilst reducing the rate of missed investigations, referrals, and delayed discharges by over 90%. This project highlights how small, simple, and easy to enforce changes can lead to significant improvements in the quality of care provided to patients.