Authors (including presenting author) :
Yung KY (1), Ma SF (1), Lo KY (1), Chan KW (1), Wu MC (1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Neurosurgery, Kwong Wah Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Collaboration
Keyword 4: :
Clinical Information System
Introduction :
The High Dependency Unit (HDU) in the Neurosurgery Department at Kwong Wah Hospital has utilized a Clinical Information System (CIS) for clinical documentation since 2005. This system supports doctors and nurses in patient documentation, continuous monitoring of vital signs, and ventilator charting. The auto-charting function facilitates a "paperless" environment, allowing nurses to allocate more time to patient care, especially in critical scenarios. The strategic launch of a new CIS during the hospital's phase one redevelopment in June 2023 aimed to capitalize on infrastructural changes for a seamless implementation. The CIS operation support team, formed in April 2022 and consisting of seven HDU nurses and doctor representatives, was crucial in this transition. Through collaboration with vendor representatives, the team customized the new CIS to meet HDU’s specific needs, managed equipment preparation, and conducted SuperUser and staff training.
Objectives :
The transition aimed to leverage collaboration and teamwork to enhance service and care delivery safety. Engaging staff throughout the process sought to build a collaborative environment where healthcare teams could easily adapt to the new system, optimizing workflows and ultimately improving patient care outcomes.
Methodology :
Key strategies to enhance collaboration and teamwork included: (i) identifying and involving stakeholders in decision-making, (ii) conducting SuperUser and staff training, (iii) implementing regular feedback mechanisms, (iv) offering recognition and incentives, and (v) providing leadership support and role modeling. A staff engagement survey assessed user satisfaction, perceived ease of use, and readiness for change concerning the new CIS. Feedback gathered through the survey identified areas for improvement and highlighted staff ideas for enhancing system operations, ensuring alignment with operational needs and improving staff satisfaction.
Result & Outcome :
The focus on collaboration and teamwork during the CIS transition led to several positive outcomes: (i) increased acceptance and usability of the system, (ii) improved staff job satisfaction, (iii) enhanced multidisciplinary team collaboration, (iv) minimized operational disruptions, and (v) improved data accuracy and integration capabilities. By emphasizing collaboration and teamwork during planning, training, and evaluation phases, the hospital facilitated a smoother transition to the new CIS. Involving healthcare professionals across these phases reinforced a culture of teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
