Using Performance Management to Implement a Preprocedural Checklist for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Procedures.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Patient Safety in Endoscopy

Background:

• Inconsistent patient readiness for gastrointestinal endoscopy caused scheduling inefficiencies.
• The World Health Organization's Surgical Safety Checklist has demonstrated success in reducing surgical mortality and complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a preprocedural checklist and positive reinforcement on patient preparation in an endoscopy unit.
• To improve nurse-to-nurse communication regarding patient readiness before gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Main Methods:

• A 6-week pilot study was conducted with preintervention and postintervention phases.
• A preprocedural checklist was implemented for patient preparation and inter-unit communication.
• Positive reinforcement strategies were used by nursing leadership to encourage checklist adoption.

Main Results:

• The preprocedural checklist significantly improved patient preparation and communication of readiness.
• Nurses reported enhanced care and communication between patient care units post-implementation.
• The study indicated direct and indirect benefits for both nurses and patients.

Conclusions:

• A preprocedural checklist is crucial for adequate patient preparation and accurate communication in gastrointestinal endoscopy units.
• Positive reinforcement can effectively promote the use of checklists among nursing staff.
• Checklist implementation leads to improved patient care and operational efficiency in endoscopy settings.