Cost-Effective Digital Upgrade for Emergency Equipment Checks in Maternity Wards

Introduction

Reliable checks of emergency equipment are vital in a delivery suite for ensuring patient safety. A pre-existing paper-based system for recording such checks was highlighted as deficient during inspectorate evaluations, leading to inconsistencies and auditing difficulties.

 

Methods
In response, we utilized the Model for Improvement to create and implement a digital checking system, leveraging the Microsoft 365 platform available within the health board's IT suite, thus avoiding additional expenses. The innovative system integrated the use of QR codes and Microsoft Forms to facilitate instantaneous logging of equipment checks. Data was sent via Microsoft Power Automate to an Excel spreadsheet, acting as a real-time, colour-coded dashboard. This dashboard was continuously visible on a monitor within the central delivery suite MDT hub, strategically enabling senior clinical midwives to monitor equipment check statuses at a glance.

 

Results
After implementation, a significant improvement in recording of checks was observed. Median check completion rate for essential equipment like resuscitaires was above 90%, and compliance with emergency drug box checks reached 100%. The color-coded dashboard was a key innovation by providing immediate visual cues regarding the status of checks.

 

Discussion
This QI project identified the effectiveness of a free digital solution in addressing a significant patient safety issue. The project improved the compliance rates and enhanced the visibility of the checking process, fostering an environment of heightened safety and accountability. It demonstrates the potential of digital health solutions to streamline quality assurance processes in clinical environments. Inadequate recording of equipment checks is often identified as an issue in CQC reports and our scalable model can be replicated in other departments or institutions seeking similar improvements.