Authors (including presenting author) :
Ng WY(1), Wong KW(2), Chan YYR(1), Pun KL(2)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, (2)Nursing Services Division, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Retained Material
Keyword 2: :
Wound packing
Keyword 3: :
Wound and Packing Module
Keyword 4: :
Simulation Training
Introduction :
Recurrent sentinel events involving retained wound dressings have underscored the need for improved wound packing techniques and accurate documentation to ensure patient safety. The Head Office (HO) developed the Wound and Packing Module, a paperless system within the Clinical Management System (CMS), implemented across Hospital Authority hospitals on 16 December 2024. Alongside HO’s briefing sessions and online materials, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital (TWEH) introduced simulation-based training to enhance wound packing skills and staff understanding of the system.
Objectives :
The training aimed to enhance proper wound packing techniques, reinforce safe and effective procedures, and ensure accurate data entry into the Wound and Packing Module while equipping staff with troubleshooting knowledge.
Methodology :
The training emphasized the definition of wound packing, the “1 cm Depth Principle,” and key elements of safe wound packing, including “One Wound, One Packing”, “Leaving a Visible Tail”, and “Clear Documentation and Communication”. Five scenarios were designed based on common wound packing-related clinical situations, integrated with the functionality of the new electronic documentation system. Participants practiced wound packing techniques and entered data into the virtual CMS Wound and Packing Module after each procedure. A debriefing session was conducted after the scenario-based simulations to allow reflection and discussion.
Result & Outcome :
Two identical simulation-based training sessions were delivered in November 2024 to trainers from various units and wards, with a total of ten nurses participating. Participants effectively articulated key practices during debriefing sessions and raised inquiries and misconceptions about the Wound and Packing Module, which were addressed through facilitator guidance and hands-on practice. With facilitators’ support, participants successfully mastered the highlighted elements of the training on safe wound packing techniques. The evaluation yielded an overall satisfaction score of 5.4 out of 6. All participants agreed or strongly agreed that the content was practical and applicable to their workplace. Simulation-based training significantly enhanced wound packing safety and proficiency in the Wound and Packing Module, as evidenced by high satisfaction scores and participants’ feedback during the debriefing session. This training approach, which surpasses traditional lectures, fosters practical skills and confidence in a controlled environment, thereby reducing the risk of retained dressings. Going forward, simulation-based training could be widely adopted to meet training needs, particularly in areas requiring hands-on practice beyond theoretical knowledge.
