Author(s): Jones R.; Bridge M.
Source: Anaesthesia; Jan 2019; vol. 74 ; p. 77
Publication Date: Jan 2019
Publication Type(s): Conference Abstract
Available at Anaesthesia – from Wiley Online Library Full Collection
Abstract:Methods The National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) Lead recognised the need to improve data entry and engagement with NELA. The first aim of the project was to improve healthcare professionals’ engagement with data collection. The second aim to analyse the hospital’s laparotomy data within the month that it is collected to achieve a timely change in practice and to guide improvements in patient care. To increase multidisciplinary engagement with data input, a mobile application was created by the Merseyside Anaesthetic Group for Improving Quality (MAGIQ). Data collected were analysed and collated internally and input into the NELA database. Patient confidentiality is assured by using unique randomised codes. The monthly results are sent to all professionals involved in the laparotomy service to record how the service is progressing and inspire further improvements. Results The mobile app enables the data from every patient to be added at the time of emergency laparotomy. This has led to an increase in direct recording of cases and increased the reliability of NELA data. The mobile app has facilitated monthly data collection, which emphasises the importance of key NELA outcomes, such as administration of antibiotics, senior attendance at laparotomy and pre-operative risk assessment. Since starting data collection in this way, a rise in the number of consultant-led emergency laparotomy cases has been reported. Regular analysis of the data and the sharing of this within the multidisciplinary team, have resulted in an increased awareness of the NELA project. Discussion The mobile app has captured specific emergency laparotomy data at the time of the procedure, providing real-time reliable information that is easily recorded by multidisciplinary teams on their mobile devices. Verbal feedback has been extremely positive, benefits including being easy to use, available on all devices and is time saving. The application is now in five local hospitals, which means developments in the emergency laparotomy service can be compared across the region and acted on immediately.
Database: EMBASE