Using Data, To Make Workflows Smarter!
Streamlining Healthcare Associated Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Surveillance Reporting
Lauren Eve Mitchell1, Pauline Bass , 1Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Background
Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most common complications related to surgery. SSI’s are linked to increased morbidity and mortality, postponement of recovery and increased length of hospital stay. Whilst surveillance reporting has shown to improve patient outcomes, it has historically been a time consuming, manual process. Workflow pressures during the pandemic saw surveillance processes overhauled, leading us to automate data collection, streamline pathology analysis and computerise reporting procedures.
Method
-A full-time Surveillance Nurse position was established to monitor SSI rates in Orthopaedic and Cardiothoracic patients
-Collaboration with the in-house data team to develop electronic management systems (replacing paper-based reporting)
-Establishing automated workflows to instantaneously capture positive isolates and monitor patient readmissions
Results
-Continuity of reporting processes via a primary surveillance nurse
-Automation of identified isolates, allowing punctual pathology review
-Reduced reporting time and optimisation of resources
-Prompt identification of data trends
-Communication with multidisciplinary teams, via single point of contact
-Streamlined and standardised reporting processes
-Identification of themes for quality improvement interventions
Conclusion
SSI surveillance incorporates a multidisciplinary approach to ensure compliance with patient safety and mandatory healthcare reporting requirements. Development of automated, in-house data systems has created timely surveillance processes. Appointment of a primary contact has consolidated communication and strengthened stakeholder rapport. Development of streamlined, computerised reporting, has improved information analysis and case review. Introduction of a primary nurse surveillance role, coupled with automated data notification systems, has reinforced the importance of robust processes, emphasising the value of digital health and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Biography
For more than 10 years, Lauren has worked in the Public Health field. After a fulfilling career within the Operating Suite, Lauren moved into a role within the hospital Infection Prevention team at the beginning of the Pandemic.
Prior knowledge on the importance of sterility and infection control principles is a driving force behind her interest in Infection Prevention. Experience within the surgical realm and completion of a Master of Public Health, has assisted Lauren to manage the hospital surveillance portfolios for Surgical Site Infection (SSI) reporting.