The Power of Positivity:
The impact of patient feedback on obstetric anaesthetists
K Hoyland, C Crayford, E McCabe, M Walters
East Kent Hospitals University Foundation Trust
Introduction
•Mental health of NHS workers is at an all time low1
•Burnout levels are high1
•Anaesthetists are a vulnerable group for multiple reasons, especially as they are often the ‘unsung heroes2
•Anaesthetists play a key role in the patient experience in obstetrics2
•East Kent Hospitals Maternity department has been under scrutiny following the KirkupReport
•In times of scrutiny, it is important to acknowledge not only the areas for improvement, but also the aspects that staff are doing well
Methodology
•In May 2022, EKHUFT implemented the “Your Voice is Heard” project
•Aimed to ascertain feedback on women’s birth experiences 6 weeks after delivery
•12 point structured questionnaire with open and closed questions, conducted by telephone
•No questions specifically asked about anaesthetic care
•When feedback is elicited about an anaesthetic interaction, this is transcribed and relayed back to the relevant anaesthetist
Results
•1325 women interviewed since the commencement of the project
•Only 37 (2.8%) of patients volunteered feedback related to their anaesthetic intervention
•35 positive
•2 negative
•Almost no emphasis placed on clinical skills/abilities
Discussion
•Personalised feedback has an extremely positive impact on the anaesthetists involved
•“Itmade their day”
•Women remember anaesthetists for their ‘softer skills’, rather than technical ability
•Clinical competence is expected by patients
•Empathetic communication, reassurance and a patient centred approach are valued highly by women
•Feedback provides scope to:
•improve service delivery
•provide evidence and reflection for appraisal
•boost team morale and wellbeing
References
[1] Kinmanand Teoh. What could make a difference to the mental health of UK doctors? A review of the research evidence. Technical report. Society of OccupaonalMedicine and the Louise TebbothFoundaon. 2018
[2] Djagbletey, Aryee, Essuman, et al. Pa ents’knowledge and percepon of anaesthesiaand the anaesthestat a teraryhealth care facility in Ghana. South African Journal of Anaesthesiaand Analgesia. 2017; 23(1): 11-16
