Applying 6S Concepts to ICU Corridor, Documentation Drawer and Clean Utility Room
Care Process & Redesign
National University Health System Quality Improvement
National University Health System
31 December 2023
Ensure obstruction-free movement in ICU corridors. 6S concepts effectively improved ICU safety, workflow efficiency, and productivity, saving significant time and enhancing safety.
Year Submitted: 2023
Published Date: 31 December 2023
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Lean Methodology, Job Effectiveness, Productivity, Time Saving
About this Content
Aims
Ensure obstruction-free movement in ICU corridors.
Ensure timely top-up of paper forms in documentation drawers.
Reduce time spent finding consumables in the clean utility room by at least 50%.
Background
Disorganized ICU corridors, empty documentation drawers, and messy clean utility rooms caused workflow inefficiencies and safety hazards.
Methods
Implemented the 6S methodology: Safety, Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, Sustain.
Created designated parking spaces for COWs and ultrasound machines.
Added a “Last Piece Warming” system for document drawers.
Labeled and organized clean utility room baskets with photos.
Results
Time spent locating consumables reduced by >50%.
ICU corridors are now obstruction-free and safer.
Documentation drawers remained consistently stocked with forms.
Conclusion
6S concepts effectively improved ICU safety, workflow efficiency, and productivity, saving significant time and enhancing safety.
Lessons Learnt
Organized workplaces promote safety and save time during patient care. Sustainability relies on audits, roll-call sessions, and emphasizing best practices.
Additional Information
Project sustained through 6S audits and staff training.
Keywords
6S Methodology, Safety, Workflow Improvement, Productivity, Lean Principles, ICU, Nursing, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System |
Organization(s) Involved | Ng Teng Fong General Hospital |
Platform(s) | National University Health System Quality Improvement |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Nursing, Healthcare Administration |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Healthcare Administrators |
Project Lead(s) | Li Jia Xin |
Project Member(s) | Agnes Toh |
Connect with this contributor!
Li Jia Xin - jia_xin_li@nuhs.edu.sg