Decreasing Non-Actionable False Alarms in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
10 October 2025
Project Categories
Care Continuum
Care Process & Redesign
Platform
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
Cluster
Private Hospital
The aim of the project is to reduce non-actionable alarms generated by central monitoring systems in the ICU, thereby. The intervention significantly improved alarm management in the ICU, enhancing patientsafety and staff efficiency.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 10 October 2025
Tags: Care Continuum, Care Process ＆ Redesign, Workflow Redesign, Quality Improvement, Value Based Care, Safe Care, Risk Management, Intensive Care, Acute Care
About this Content
Aims
The aim of the project is to reduce non-actionable alarms generated by central monitoring systems in the ICU, thereby improving staff well-being and patient safety.
Background
Frequent non-actionable alarms in ICU operations can desensitize staff, leading to delayed responses to critical alarms. This contributes to increased stress, reduced focus on urgent tasks, and potential errors in patient care.
Methods
A multi-faceted approach was developed, including upgrading the alarm analysis system, providing in-service training, and implementing a standardised documentation system. The project involved a multidisciplinary team and used a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle.
Results
The project achieved a 30% reduction in non-actionable alarms within three months, despite an increase in alarm volume and patient admissions post-implementation.
Conclusion
The intervention significantly improved alarm management in the ICU, enhancing patientsafety and staff efficiency. The changes have been sustained and integrated into daily operations.
Lessons Learnt
Regular feedback loops and tailored training based on staff experience levels were essential. Engaging stakeholders earlier and having a robust communication strategy would have been beneficial.
Keywords
Alarm Management, ICU, Patient Safety, Workflow Redesign
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | Private Hospital |
Organization(s) Involved | Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Nursing |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Intensive Care Medicine, Emergency Medicine |
Project Lead(s) | Munirah Binte Rosli |
Project Member(s) | Ong Tsui Voon |
Connect with this contributor!
Munirah Binte Rosli - munirah.rosli@mountelizabeth.com.sg