Perioperative transfer of patients with potential spinal injury: A survey-based pre- and post-intervention study of a
Bianca Wahlen1, Ayman El-Menyar2, Ahammed Mekkodathil3
1Department of Anesthesiology, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar.
Background:
Safe perioperative transfer of patients with potential spinal cord injury (SCI) is essential to prevent secondary neurological damage. Targeted training of operating room nurses (ORNs) is critical for ensuring adherence to best-practice transfer techniques.
Objectives:
To determine the effect of a scenario-based training intervention on knowledge and self-reported practices of ORNs regarding safe perioperative transfer of patients with potential SCI.
Methods:
This survey-based pre- and post-intervention study was conducted at Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar, between January and March 2024. A structured self-administered questionnaire was administered to ORNs before and after a targeted training intervention. Variables included preferred transfer device, number of staff required, leadership during transfer, hand positioning, and command sequence. Descriptive statistics and McNemar's test were used for analysis.
Results:
A total of 138 ORNs participated (mean age, 37.6 ± 6.2 years; 68% female). Use of plastic boards increased from 88% (n = 122) to 93% (n = 128) post-intervention (P < 0.05). Compliance with the recommended four-person log-roll team improved from 67% (n = 92) to 79% (n = 109). Reliance on anesthetists for transfer leadership increased from 41% to 58%, while inappropriate reliance on other staff decreased from 33% to 28%.
Conclusion:
A targeted scenario-based training intervention significantly improved ORNs' knowledge and self-reported adherence to safe perioperative transfer practices for patients with potential SCI.
