WE3.12 A Closed Loop Clinical Audit on The Implementation of WHO Surgical Safety Checklist at a Tertiary Level Hospital in India: Where do we stand?

Abstract

Abstract Aim To complete an audit on the level of compliance to the WHO surgical safety checklist in surgical operating theatres at a Tertiary level hospital in India. Method A total of 40 general surgeries were observed at the operating theatres at a tertiary level hospital in India to confirm the practice of the WHO surgical safety checklist. The study was conducted for a period of 2 months starting from July to August 2021. The results were compared with standard guidelines and further analyzed. Interventions were carried out by a series of rigorous departmental meetings and discussions with the medical and nursing staff. A re-audit was conducted after 2 weeks. Results Of all the operations audited, 45% Sign-In and only 1% Sign-Out were performed in the first cycle. After the re-audit, a significant change was reported as the Sign-In improved to 80% and a 55% Sign-Out was conducted. The Time-Out was observed to increase from 15% to 65%. Conclusion Though in the first cycle of our audit the compliance to the SSCL was found to be suboptimal, significant improvement was demonstrated in the second cycle after rigorous awareness programs and training sessions. Compliance was seen to be greater in major surgeries than in minor surgeries. Compliance with all items in the checklist and active participation by all medical and nursing staff is mandatory for successful implementation of the Surgical safety checklist.