51. INCREASING PEDIATRIC RESIDENT LOGGING OF PROCEDURES THROUGH DEVELOPMENT OF A MOBILE APP

Abstract

Background Learning to perform common medical procedures is one of many elements of Pediatric residency training. In our program, we have observed great proficiency of residents’ procedural skills, but an unfortunate deficiency in completion of procedural logs. Incomplete procedure logs make it difficult to ensure each resident is receiving adequate procedural skills training and to certify competency to future employers. At our institution, the biggest barrier to timely completion of procedure logs was a cumbersome, tedious, and time-consuming logging system (New Innovations). Using QI methodology and technology, we aimed to improve the procedure logging process. Aim Statement To increase the number of procedures logged per resident, from 14 per year to 20 per year (1.66 per month), by March 31, 2020. Interventions We used the model for improvement to perform multiple PDSA cycles to create a simpler, quicker, and more efficient process for logging procedures. After analyzing failures in our legacy process, we tested multiple commercially available apps and web-based platforms as potential replacements. Based on our learning, we opted to design and create our own “NYU Peds App”. The app was iteratively tested using small groups of Pediatric residents, allowing us to modify the design and maximize efficiency, prior to implementation across the full program. Following the launch of the app, the program created a new policy, specifying the number of procedures to be completed each year. Results Since its launch, 1192 procedures have been logged using the NYU Peds App. The number of procedures logged per resident per month has increased from 0.9 to 3.2 (see Figure 1). Further, we have improved resident satisfaction. On an anonymous survey, the percent of residents who strongly agree that the logging system is easy to use significantly increased from 3% (New Innovations) to 82% (NYU Peds App). Conclusions and Next Steps We were able to successfully increase the number of procedures logged by our residents. The main driver of the improvement was implementation of a mobile app that is easy, fast, and usable at the time of care.