The Use of Kaizen by Nurses for Preparing Airway Trolley in a Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

The readiness of essential equipment like airway trolleys is critical in pediatric cardiac intensive care units (PCICUs). Kaizen, a Lean management principle, has been increasingly applied in healthcare to enhance efficiency and patient care. This study investigates the transformative impact of Kaizen principles on airway trolley preparation in a 10-bedded PCICU. A 12-month prospective observational study was conducted between January 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024. Kaizen was introduced in the system on July 1, 2024. Pre-and post-Kaizen data were compared to evaluate its impact on response times, preparation efficiency, error reduction, resource utilization, and nursing satisfaction. We demonstrated remarkable reduction in response times during pediatric cardiac emergencies, from 4.82 to 2.14 min, post-Kaizen (p < .001). Time spent on airway trolley preparation decreased significantly from 12.5 to 7.3 min (p < .001). The frequency of errors in preparation decreased significantly from 4.2 to 1.1 errors per month. Waste reduction was achieved through streamlined processes, with nurses reporting a 30% reduction in preparation time. Nursing staff expressed heightened confidence and preparedness during high-stress situations. The application of Kaizen principles significantly optimized airway trolley preparation processes, highlighting their potential for broader healthcare applications.