The Role of Professional Advocate in Endoscopy: The A-Equip Model

Abstract

In endoscopy, quality improvement (QI) is paramount and integral to Joint Advisory Group (JAG) accreditation. The challenge is to keep staff engaged and enthused in the face of factors that influence their emotions and behaviour. This was demonstrated in the author's endoscopy recovery units being used to cope with an inpatient surge for 14 months, which increased stress, sickness and turnover and lowered compliance with clinical audits. The professional advocate (PA) was tasked with addressing this and established that the QI systems in place were inadequate without investment in the team's human and social capital. The PA acted according to the Advocating and Educating for Quality Improvement (A-EQUIP) model to create a positive environment and support continuous improvement using various wellbeing tools and techniques. Restorative clinical supervision, human factors training and concepts from neurological and social sciences were employed to increase self-awareness, improve attitudes and build resilience in the workforce. These techniques have received positive feedback and become integral to the service. Endoscopy services should prioritise investment in workforce education and wellbeing and adopt the role of PA, which should be considered as part of JAG workforce standards.