Improving Surgical Safety Culture in SGH by Reimplementing the SGH Surgical Safety Checklist
Care Process & Redesign
Training ＆ Education
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
31 December 2022
To improve surgical safety culture by reimplementing the SGH Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC). Redesigned SSC effectively enhances surgical safety culture and teamwork in a high-pressure environment.
Year Submitted: 2022
Published Date: 31 December 2022
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Training ＆ Education, Quality Improvement, Design Thinking, Value Based Care, Safe Care, Adherence Rate, Learning Culture
About this Content
Aims
To improve surgical safety culture by reimplementing the SGH Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC).
Background
Despite adopting the WHO SSC in 2009, the checklist's intent was diluted over time, affecting safety culture.
Methods
Revised the SSC using data-driven insights, tested changes through PDSA cycles, and implemented e-learning modules and live training.
Results
Improved adherence rates, reduced serious adverse events, and enhanced teamwork in operating theatres; achieved a significant NOTECHS score improvement.
Conclusion
Redesigned SSC effectively enhances surgical safety culture and teamwork in a high-pressure environment.
Lessons Learnt
Continuous engagement and addressing staff concerns are vital for embedding a safety culture.
Keywords
Surgical Safety Checklist, Patient Safety, Operating Theatre
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | Singapore General Hospital, National Heart Centre Singapore |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Nursing, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Surgery, Cardiology |
Project Lead(s) | Yong Tze Tein |
Project Member(s) | Lim Shu Rong |
Connect with this contributor!
A/Prof Yong Tze Tein - yong.tze.tein@singhealth.com.sg