Authors: (including presenting author): :
Pansy SSS(1), Lam WS(1), Lam SM(1), Ho LK(1), Sham CL(1)
Affiliation: :
(1) Ward 3E (Pulmonary Unit), Haven of Hope Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Smart Stockroom Navigation
Keyword 2: :
360-Degree Visual Mapping
Keyword 3: :
QR Code Technology
Keyword 4: :
Clinical Workflow Efficiency
Keyword 5: :
Time-Motion Study
Introduction: :
Efficient management of ward stock is critical for ensuring timely patient care. However, inconsistent storage practices often lead to wasted staff time and operational delays.
Objectives: :
This study aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of stock management in a sub-acute hospital ward. The specific objectives were to implement a QR code-enabled 360-degree visual mapping system to significantly reduce stock retrieval time.
Methodology: :
A pre-post implementation pilot study was conducted in the medical ward (3E) of Haven of Hope Hospital over a two-month period. The intervention involved capturing 360-degree panoramic images of storage areas, which were hosted online and embedded in specific QR codes generated. These QR codes were physically affixed adjacent to relevant stock items, followed by a comprehensive staff orientation to facilitate system adoption. A quantitative time-motion study was performed and 11 participants, including advanced practice nurses, registered nurses, nursing students, and patient care assistants, were recruited to analyze the retrieval process. The primary outcome measures were the absolute time (in seconds) required to locate stock items and the percentage reduction in search time.
Result & Outcome: :
The pilot study analyzed the retrieval times of 11 frequently used medical consumables. Baseline assessment revealed significant inefficiencies, with an average retrieval time of 123.5 seconds per item. Post-implementation results demonstrated a substantial reduction, with the average retrieval time dropping to 11.2 seconds. This represents an overall efficiency improvement of 86.85%. Notably, the search time for "Foam" decreased by 96.30% (270s to 10s), and the "Non-rebreathing O2 Mask" decreased by 87.10% (186s to 24s). The QR code-enabled 360-degree visual mapping system demonstrated superior efficacy in optimizing inventory management. The substantial reduction in retrieval times confirms that digital visual aids can significantly streamline clinical workflow. This low-cost, innovative solution is a viable model for scaling to other clinical areas to enhance overall operational efficiency.
