Most Proposed Topic :
Staff Engagement and Empowerment (motivating staff / teamwork / work revamp tackling manpower issue)
Second Preferred Topic :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service I (projects aiming to improve efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery to meet international standards)
Authors: (including presenting author): :
Lok PL(1), Yim CH(1), Fung SH(1), Wan HY(1), Wong LY(1)
Affiliation: :
(1)Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital
Introduction: :
Hospital Authority (HA) has embraced smart initiatives as part of its 2022-2027 strategic directions for sustainable healthcare. In line with this, the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery of Queen Mary Hospital launched the Perioperative Nursing Information System (PNIS) in the operating theatre, becoming the first in Hong Kong West Cluster to adopt paperless perioperative nursing documentation.
To address resistance to change, encourage technology adoption and facilitate future smart initiatives, a comprehensive training program was introduced.
Objectives: :
(1) to assess compliance and competency levels before and after PNIS implementation; (2) to empower nurses by raising awareness of PNIS benefits and overcoming resistance; (3) to facilitate future smart initiatives by equipping staff with necessary skills and mindset
Methodology: :
The four-month training program utilised recorded videos, PowerPoint presentations and one-on-one demonstrations. Pre- and post-implementation evaluation surveys were conducted to measure staff acceptance, compliance, competency levels, and perceptions after six months of system use. Qualitative questions were included to gain deeper insights into their experiences.
Result & Outcome: :
Initially, nurses exhibited resistance to change, with a compliance rate of only one-third. Concerns included technophobia, disruption of established workflow and uncertainty about the benefits of PNIS. However, with training and six months of system use, all 28 circulating nurses consistently used PNIS for all surgeries. The training was deemed effective by 96% of staff, enabling them to use the system more efficiently. Additionally, 93% of staff expressed confidence and competence in applying PNIS while two staff required additional support.
Qualitative feedback highlighted the importance of the training program in alleviating concerns and fostering engagement with the new system. Clear instructions, hands-on practice opportunities and ongoing individualised support from trainers were vital for successful adaptation and adoption.
As HA strives for continuous improvement, integrating PNIS into daily theatre workflow represents a strategic investment in enhancing staff engagement, theatre efficiency, surgical safety and healthcare sustainability. The invaluable experience from the training program has established a solid foundation and equipped the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery with the necessary readiness for successful implementation of forthcoming smart initiatives.
