Authors (including presenting author) :
Cheung MY(1), Cheung PT(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital
Introduction :
Working in an isolation ward poses two main challenges: the double-door Airborne Infection Isolation Room (AIIR) and the lengthy gowning process. First, staff cannot access patient information from the electronic bed panel directly before approaching the patient. Second, continuous communication with patients becomes difficult. To address this, a standardized instrument summarizing patient conditions, special needs, and dietary habits is needed outside each isolation room.
Previously, staff used a whiteboard for patient information, which resulted in unstandardized and disorganized entries. The goal is to enhance communication among colleagues and provide standardized nursing care. The new instrument aims to: (1) deliver concise, organized patient information for reliable care; (2) protect patient privacy by avoiding unnecessary details; (3) reduce delays in accessing critical information; (4) eliminate confusion from misinterpretation of patient charts; and (5) decrease PPE usage.
Objectives :
When we were designing the new communication instrument, there were four objectives we hope to achieve:
Improve communication and reduce negligence of patient needs
Improve efficiency that time spent searching for patient information is reduced
Enhance accuracy as a communication tool to avoid misinterpretation and overwhelming information
Improve staff satisfaction with a simpler and more standardized tool
Methodology :
The new standardized patient chart board includes: (1) Diet, (2) Thickener, (3) Special care, (4) Dentures/Hearing aids, and (5) Others. It features a simple black-and-white table with tick boxes for the first four categories, while a blank space allows for additional important notes, minimizing handwriting. This layout enables quick information access and reduces misinterpretation.
Old whiteboards were removed when the new chart board was implemented. The board was introduced to nurses and PCAs, with a four-week trial period. During this time, the shift in charge ensured timely updates to minimize infection risk and inconsistent care. Feedback was collected to make adjustments, leading to successful implementation.
Result & Outcome :
A questionnaire with eight questions was distributed to 14 nurses and PCAs. Over 90% considered the new tool effective, with nearly 80% reporting easy access to information once accustomed to it. There were no misinterpretations, and staff satisfaction improved. The new board reduced monthly PPE usage by approximately 810 pieces, totaling around 10,000 annually.
The standardized patient chart board has effectively replaced traditional whiteboards, enhancing communication, efficiency, accuracy, and staff satisfaction, significantly improving the quality of care in the isolation ward.
