Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service II (Projects aiming to enhance clinical safety and outcomes, clinical governance / risk management)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Ho SH(1), Fung SH(1), Wan HYS(1), Wong LY(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital
Introduction :
Introduction:
Cardiac surgeries continue to account for the highest consumption of blood products among all surgical procedures. However, allogeneic blood transfusion carries substantial adverse risks, and considering the current significant decline in blood donation, it is essential to reduce reliance on traditional blood transfusion. Cell salvage is a major form of autotransfusion proved to be a safe and efficient alternative. Nevertheless, it does have certain risks such as contamination caused by improper handling, which requires well-trained personnel for equipment setup and manipulation. Therefore, establishment of a training program to optimize the utilization of the Cell Saver system holds tremendous potential not only in reducing the dependence of invaluable resources but also in promoting patient safety.
Objectives :
Objectives:
(1) Provide an overview of the Cell Saver system and its importance in reducing dependence on blood products; (2) Explain the various features and advance setup of the Cell Saver system in specialized operation theater environment; (3) Address troubleshooting techniques for using the Cell Saver system.
Methodology :
Methodology:
A combination of PowerPoint lecture and live demonstration focused on preparing and operating the Cell Saver system was employed. A pre-recorded video also served as a setup reference. Subjects were the nurses in the operation theater, the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery (CTSD). Outcome measures included return demonstrations and competency assessment integrating realistic scenarios. Furthermore, a pending test which aims to ensure effective utilization and troubleshooting will assess and refresh participants’ knowledge and skills 6 months after the completion of the program.
Result & Outcome :
Results:
Starting in March 2023, 30 operation theater nurses of CTSD (60%) participated in the training program. All participants successfully completed the return demonstration and effectively responded to all setup scenarios in competency assessment. Notably, participants expressed satisfaction with the program and felt more equipped and confident to handle various situations. The pending test will serve as an additional reinforcement of their proficiency in troubleshooting techniques.
Conclusions:
The results highlight the effectiveness of the training program in improving competence and preventing operative errors associated with utilizing the Cell Saver system. The successful outcomes underscore the program’s value in enhancing patient safety and optimizing the allocation of invaluable resources.
