649 Closed Loop Audit: Improving Surgical Handover in a Major Trauma Centre (RSCH)

Abstract

Abstract Aim The goal of handover is the accurate reliable communication of task-relevant information across shift changes or between teams. Effective and safe transfer of clinical information is critical for patient safety. The aim of this study to assess Surgical handover in Royal Sussex County Hospital comparing it to the RCS guidelines as standard as well as improving the current practice. Method We undertook two cycles each cycle lasted for 6 weeks. These cycles aimed to assess the surgical handover and comparing them with RCS guidelines using checklists. A teaching session was conducted between the two cycles. In addition, RCS guidelines were handed over to all surgical doctors. Results we discussed a total of 2348 patients in morning surgical handover, over a period of 12 weeks (first cycle: 1203, second cycle:1145). Following conduction of teaching sessions and handing over guidelines, there was a significant improvement in documentation of patients age (from 73% to 97%), responsible consultant (from 92% to 98%), significant investigations (from 60% to 93%) and management plan (from 64% to 96%). Conclusions Education about proper handover was proven to be successful in improving the quality of surgical handover in a major trauma center.