Improve Accuracy of Visual Acuity (VA) Assessments Conducted in Emergency Department (ED)
Care Process & Redesign
Training ＆ Education
National University Health System Quality Improvement
National University Health System
31 December 2023
Improve the accuracy of Visual Acuity (VA) assessments conducted in the Emergency Department (ED) and ensure that at least. The use of structured training, standardized equipment, and ongoing audits ensured sustained improvements in VA assessment practices.
Year Submitted: 2023
Published Date: 31 December 2023
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Training ＆ Education, Quality Improvement, Job Effectiveness, Assessment, Workplace Based Assessment
About this Content
Aims
Improve the accuracy of Visual Acuity (VA) assessments conducted in the Emergency Department (ED) and ensure that at least 80% of ED nursing staff are proficient by December 2023.
Background
ED nurses faced challenges with consistent VA assessment practices, leading to inaccurate results and delayed referrals.
Methods
Implemented new Snellen charts, portable stands, training videos, and competency checklists, and conducted random audits of VA assessments.
Results
Increased VA assessment accuracy from 27.8% to 85.1% and improved staff knowledge from 42.9% to 89.4% post-intervention.
Conclusion
The use of structured training, standardized equipment, and ongoing audits ensured sustained improvements in VA assessment practices.
Lessons Learnt
Train-the-trainer methodology, hands-on practice, and use of technology significantly improved VA assessment accuracy and nurse confidence.
Keywords
Visual Acuity, ED, Training, Competency, Patient Safety
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, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Emergency Medicine, Optometry/Optometrist |
Project Lead(s) | Kamala Velu |
Project Member(s) | Lim Siew Lian |
Connect with this contributor!
Kamala Velu - Kamala_Velu@nuhs.edu.sg