Waiting for surgery after orthopaedic trauma

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Healthcare Management
• Action Research

Background:

• Delays in surgical theatre for pediatric orthopaedic trauma patients cause concern for staff and families.
• Current care processes may lack clarity and efficiency, contributing to prolonged waiting times.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and reduce delays in the surgical admission process for pediatric orthopaedic trauma patients.
• To improve the care experience for children and their families awaiting surgery.

Main Methods:

• A facilitated action research approach was employed.
• Information was gathered from various sources to understand the issue.
• Changes to the care process were introduced, including a flowchart and a whiteboard for patient information.

Main Results:

• A flowchart was developed to delineate admission stages and involved staff.
• A whiteboard was implemented to track 'trauma' patient information.
• The action research process facilitated skill development in research and change management for staff.

Conclusions:

• Facilitated action research provides a practical method for healthcare staff to address process inefficiencies.
• The implemented changes aimed to streamline the admission process for pediatric trauma surgery.
• This approach empowers staff to develop transferable skills in research and change management.