Patient Lockers Outcomes
July 2014
To determine the efficacy of the new procedure for managing patient lockers, I interviewed the Perianesthesia staff who were affected; namely the Family Care Coordinator, Pre-Op Charge Nurses, and PACU Charge Nurses.
To determine the efficacy of the new procedure for managing patient lockers, I interviewed the Perianesthesia staff who were affected; namely the Family Care Coordinator, Pre-Op Charge Nurses, and PACU Charge Nurses.
Message from Michelle Nicks, Family Care Coordinator:
"Hello Raelyn! I wanted to let you know that since the instructions and cards went up for the lockers, I’ve noticed a decrease in 'lock outs'. It is very important the Pre-Op RN’s educate the families on the lockers. Maybe an occasional reminder to Pre-Op that the education to the families on this is imperative in order for the locker situation to run smoothly would be helpful as well."
PreOp and PACU Permanent Charge Nurses reported a decrease in phone calls regarding locker issues.
Russ Anderson, Pre-Op Permanent Charge Nurse sent the following message:
"Hello Raelyn! I wanted to let you know that since the instructions and cards went up for the lockers, I’ve noticed a decrease in 'lock outs'. It is very important the Pre-Op RN’s educate the families on the lockers. Maybe an occasional reminder to Pre-Op that the education to the families on this is imperative in order for the locker situation to run smoothly would be helpful as well."
PreOp and PACU Permanent Charge Nurses reported a decrease in phone calls regarding locker issues.
Russ Anderson, Pre-Op Permanent Charge Nurse sent the following message:
Future Recommendations
Patients/families/friends need to be directed to use the cards during the admission process. Occasionally they will not read the sign, unless it's pointed out by the nurse, CNA, admissions staff, or FCC. Staff merely need a reminder to make this part of the process when collecting patients and storing belongings. This can be accomplished through an email and announcement at a Pre-Op staff meeting.
Photographs of interventions for managing patient lockers in the waiting room
Patient lockers in waiting room with new signage and instructions
New signage with instructions and easily accessible cards below
New Family Care Coordinator sign posted on desk wall