A new study showcases a successful quality improvement program that significantly enhances surgical safety. By implementing a standardized handoff protocol, known as SHRIMPS, the study demonstrates how effective communication in operating rooms (OR) can reduce the risk of errors and improve patient care. The findings are published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons ( JACS ).
This study is a prime example of how quality improvement initiatives can lead to better patient outcomes. By standardizing communication during surgical procedures, we can ensure that all team members are informed, and that critical information is consistently conveyed, reducing the risk of errors." Madeline Anderson, DO, study co-author, surgery resident at the University of Kentucky Prompted by a frontline stakeholder's concerns about inadequate quality surgical technician handoffs, the quality improvement (QI) team at the Lexington VA Medical Center, affiliated with the University of Kentucky hospital, developed an audit tool to evaluate handoffs across various surgical cases from May 2022 to February 2024.
Initial audits revealed handoffs occurred in 82.6% of cases, but with only 34.4% of critical elements being communicated.
In response, the team, in collaboration with OR staff, developed a standardized communication checklist with the acronym "SHRIMPS" (Sharps, Sponges, Hidden or held items, Replaced items, Instruments & Implants, Medications, Procedure overview, Specimens). Although.
