Step 2
• Identify improvements in workflow eliminating wasted steps and opportunities for errors
• Standardize workflow process for all rooms
• Relocate and move assets to the same place in each room
• Align this standardized process with hand hygiene process , so that hand hygiene is performed the same for each room
• Allocate and relocate dispensers to the most efficient location
• Should a dispenser be placed at the bedside ? Next to a workstation ?
Step 3
• Establish metrics
• Measure results
• Repeat the process
Most hospital workflows vary so much , even from unit to unit , that it is challenging to train staff ; many are temps and travelers . The purpose of the lean process is to create a standard workflow and work footprint where with minimal training and orientation , the staff does not have to adjust to variations in these workflows , creating a chance for error and non-compliance . An example of where we used this concept is the emergency department ( ED ). By mirroring each room as an identical reflection of best practice , ED personnel don ’ t have to think where items are ; they are there every time . In an emergency , you don ’ t have time to think ; your training , memory and habits take over .
By identifying the correct process and labeling when to execute proper hand hygiene for that unit , a high level of proficiency and compliance can be achieved . The pain of change in behavior no longer exists because routine and habit become natural . We must make it easy to be compliant by giving our teams the proper workflow , aligned with proper hand hygiene to be successful .
In conclusion , give your performance improvement team a call and try to engage with them in a project . It will not only be productive , it will be fun .
Robert Lee , BA , the CEO and founder of MD-Medical Data Quality & Safety Advisors , LLC , is the senior biologist and performance improvement consultant . MD-MDQSA is the home of The IPEX- The Infection Prevention Exchange , a digital collaboration between selected evidence-based solutions that use big data , technology , and AI to reduce risk of HAIs .