Authors (including presenting author) :
So SY(1), Tang YP(1), Liu KL(1), Lau KM(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Physiotherapy Department, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
Traditionally, the clinical handover in the Physiotherapy Department was in paper format handwritten by individual physiotherapist. This manual process was time-consuming due to the frequent patient turnover, and differences in writing style sometimes imposed confusion and miscommunication. Moreover, the storage of paper form confidential data also posed a risk to patient data security. To address these challenges, an electronic clinical handover was implemented.
Objectives :
To: 1) enhance patient safety with a smooth, accurate and fully accessible clinical handover; and 2) ensure patient data security by paperless handover; and 3) evaluate the efficacy of the electronic clinical handover system.
Methodology :
The electronic handover system was developed and centralized in the HA drive, with individualized template adapting to the operational need of different specialty. The system is secure and allow timely updates of clinical information. Shortcuts of the HA drive were installed on all data access point in the department for quick access. A practical training session was provided to all physiotherapists on accessing the HA drive and navigating the software. Additionally, a quick operational reference was distributed for future reference. A questionnaire survey was conducted one month after the implementation of the new electronic system for outcome evaluation.
Result & Outcome :
The transition to the electronic clinical handover system was implemented in a phased approach. Feedbacks were collected from staff after each phase and amendment was made accordingly. The transition was completed in June 2024. A questionnaire survey was conducted in early July 2024. The survey revealed that 100% of the staff involved agreed that the system is easy to access and edit; also reduced the time spent on repetitive handwriting and administrative tasks. Also, all of the respondents agreed the new system reduced miscommunication and ensure patient data privacy during handover.
