Does Checklist Implementation Improve Quantity of Data Transfer: An Observation in Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Communication

Background:

• Omission of patient information during perioperative communication is a significant risk factor for adverse events.
• Standardized handoff procedures, such as using checklists in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), are proven to reduce medical errors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a checklist in enhancing the quantity of data transferred during PACU handoffs.
• To investigate improvements in communication during patient handoffs in the PACU setting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) from June 13, 2016, to July 15, 2016.
• A physical 12-item checklist was provided to anesthesia staff for use during PACU handoffs.
• Observed and quantified the number of reported handoff items during 60 pre-implementation and 60 post-implementation handoffs.

Main Results:

• The mean number of reported handoff items increased from 8.7 pre-implementation to 10.9 post-implementation.
• While surgical staff reporting remained consistent, anesthesia staff reporting significantly improved with the checklist intervention.
• The intervention led to a notable increase in the overall quantity of data transferred during PACU handoffs.

Conclusions:

• Implementation of a physical 12-item checklist effectively increased data transfer during PACU handoffs.
• Standardized checklists are a valuable tool for improving perioperative communication and patient safety.