Authors (including presenting author) :
Lam KM(1), Wong CL(1), Tsang WY(2)
Affiliation :
Department of Medicine & Geriatrics, United Christian Hospital
Keyword 1: :
1.To enhance patient safety
Keyword 2: :
2.To minimize errors in nursing care
Keyword 3: :
3.To improve the overall quality of care
Introduction :
Patient safety is critically globally important on a global scale. It is a fundamental healthcare principle aimed at minimizing preventable harm, errors, and surgical mistakes, thereby leading to better health outcomes and reduced costs. To address these safety concerns, the Nursing Procedure Checklist Reminder (NPCR) was implemented in a M&G ward setting. The implementation of the NPCR is crucial for enhancing patient safety and ensuring adherence to established protocols. A critical aspect of this process is requiring two nursing staffs to verify the details before performing nursing procedures, such as Foley catheter insertion, Ryle’s tube insertion and stitch removal.
Objectives :
1.To enhance patient safety
2.To minimize errors in nursing care
3.To improve the overall quality of care
Methodology :
- Data were collected between April and November, 2025. - All nursing staff were orientated on NPCR implementation and its proper use.
- The primary goal was to ensure two nursing staffs accurately completed the NPCR before and after performing nursing procedures.
- The NPCR design included two main sections: before starting procedure and after the procedure. Prior to execution, verification by two nursing staffs was required. Additionally, the checklist mandates observation of the patient’s condition and documentation after the procedure.
Result & Outcome :
Out of 266 nursing procedures analyzed during this period, 99% (n=263) accurately completed the NPCR, while 1% (n=3) were incomplete. The incomplete NPCR lacked the dual verification requirement, as nursing staff mistakenly believed they could act as both the implementer and the team leader. An analysis conducted within one month revealed that, 41 nursing procedures were performed, with an NPCR utilization rate of 98% (n=40). Only one procedure was carried out without using the checklist. There were no incident involving patient’s identification during this period. However, the NPCR has limitations including the absence of a control group and relatively short observation period. Further observation is planned to assess the long-term effectiveness of the checklist. The findings emphasize the NPCR with mandatory dual verification by nursing staffs is a practical strategy to reduce procedure-related risks in general wards. With a high utilization rate among nursing staff, NPCR serves as effective mechanism for promoting collaborative practice and minimizing errors in nursing care. Additionally, addressing misunderstandings through targeted training has proven essential in reinforcing the importance of dual verification.
