Authors (including presenting author) :
Lau SK(1), Kwong KYT(1), Yeung YW(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Paediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital
Introduction :
Analysis of department incidents reviews insufficient situational awareness of staff. Very often, colleagues fail to recognize red flag signs or family concerns which if tackled appropriately and timely, incidents can be prevented. Evidence shows that a safety culture can be built with increase situational awareness training and practice. Safety huddle serves as a platform for staff to practice the skills of situational awareness.
Objectives :
1. To improve staff situational awareness 2. To enhance staff communication on risks and safety
Methodology :
A model of Safety huddle was designed using Johns Hopkins Evidence-based Nursing Practice Model. The pilot study was conducted in one Paediatric ward, PMH from 18 Dec 2017 to 3 Jan 2018. The S.A.F.E Safety huddle concept was introduced to all nurses of the ward (N=24). A quick guide was prepared to facilitate staff’s understanding and participation. A 15-minute safety huddle would be carried out daily at fixed time and place. Safety huddle was guided by shift-in-charge or supervisor. Team members were encouraged to voice out their concerns. Safety issues or concerns would be identified. Designated person would be assigned to follow up the improvement measures after the huddle. Each huddle provided a non-judgmental environment for team members who were empowered to speak up so as to enhance safety. Total 10 huddles were conducted with average of 7 to 12 numbers of staff participated per session. A survey was conducted to evaluate staff’s perception on the process and outcome perspectives.
Result & Outcome :
All the participants (n=24) have returned the survey after the pilot. In view of the program process, 93.3% of staff agreed that appropriate arrangement was made on the time, duration and venue. 93.8% of staff reflected that they found it easy to share their own views and receive input from members through an effective, direct and mutual communication. Supervisors have a stronger believe than RN that safety huddle helps enhance safety in the clinical area (p<0.05). Huddle leader found that safety huddle was an ideal tool to enhance team communication especially on risk & safety concerns. Overall, 94.8% of staff supported that staff communication and their situational awareness capability could be improved with safety huddles.
With support from frontline colleagues, safety huddle should be rolled out to other Paediatric wards. After this pilot study, the S.A.F.E. Safety Huddle will be fully implemented in department of Paediatrics & Adolescent Medicine by Jan 2019.
Co-location with:
