Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Research and Innovations (new projects / technology / innovations / service models)
Proposed Topic (Second preferred): :
HA Young Investigators Session (Projects to be presented by HA staff who had joined HA for 10 years or less)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan KM(1), So KF(2), Hung YL(1), Ng YB(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, United Christian Hospital
(2) Nursing Services Division, United Christian Hospital
Introduction :
The traditional whiteboard has been an integral part of task management, serving as a visual tool for interns to manage their daily responsibilities. However, the whiteboard system presents limitations, including space constraints, illegibility, and lack of real-time updates, potentially leading to inefficiencies and medical errors. Recognizing these challenges, our unit has implemented a transition to an electronic mobile platform.
Objectives :
The objectives of our initiative were to:
1. Enhance the real-time tracking and logging of tasks and patient-related activities
2. Reduce potential errors associated with manual entry and updating of tasks.
3. Facilitate better communication among nurses and interns.
Methodology :
The implementation of the electronic mobile platform was conducted by a phased approach:
1. Needs assessment: Engaging with stakeholders to identify essential features.
2. Platform establishment: The electronic platform is cloud-based which ease to assess by interns and nurses. Platform consists of three parts, which are dashboard, nurse order platform and interns management platform.
3. Pilot testing: A pilot was implemented from 1 January, 2024 to 31 January, 2024. The platform was introduced to ward nurses and interns with a briefing session by the project leader. Ongoing feedbacks from users were collected and the platform was modified accordingly to enhance user experience.
4. Full implementation: A full implementation of the electronic platform will be scheduled on 1 February 2024.
5. Evaluation: Using pre- and post-implementation surveys and performance metrics to assess the impact on task management efficiency and error rates.
Result & Outcome :
The preliminary feedbacks highlight a significant improvement in task management efficiency and accuracy after transitioning to the electronic mobile platform. Accessibility is enhanced through cloud-based architecture. Real-time tracking features include instant task details updates and shift-specific highlighting. The platform incorporates features like legibility avoidance, easy account management, and database integration. Priority management, task clustering, and first in first out task ordering contribute to streamlined workflow and overall task management efficiency.
In conclusion, the transition from a traditional whiteboard to an electronic mobile platform not only overcame the limitations of manual methods but also significantly improved efficiency, accuracy, and communication among healthcare professionals. The positive outcomes of this initiative underscore the potential benefits of digital solutions in healthcare settings, recommending similar initiatives for units facing task management challenges.
