A framework for identifying and managing risk in the operating theatre

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety
• Risk Management

Background:

• Extensive advice exists for National Health Service (NHS) risk management strategies.
• Various resources like booklets, magazines, and consultancies offer guidance.
• The National Association of Theatre Nurses (NATN) is developing specific advice for operating theatre departments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To share the practical experience of developing a risk management strategy within a single operating theatre area.
• To provide a case study from West Lothian NHS Trust's Directorate of Clinical Services.

Main Methods:

• Documenting the development process of a risk management strategy.
• Incorporating commentary from key personnel within the NHS trust.

Main Results:

• The abstract focuses on the process and experience of strategy development rather than specific outcomes.
• Highlights the need for practical, trust-specific implementation of risk management.

Conclusions:

• Sharing specific experiences in risk management strategy development is valuable.
• The document aims to supplement existing general advice with a practical case study.