Authors (including presenting author) :
Lam J(1), Tsang WS(2), Leung CY(2), Ong KL(3), Wong B(1), Chan J(1), Kwok A(1), Chui A(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Quality and Safety Division, NTWC (2) Accident and Emergency Department, Tuen Mun Hospital (3) Accident and Emergency Department, Pok Oi Hospital
Introduction :
Patient misidentification is a major challenge in patient safety. A number of incidents, including the distribution of documents to a wrong patient or the use of a wrong patient’s profile to generate documents and gave to the index patient, were common in the both inpatient and outpatient settings. Though these incidents might not cause patient harm, the disclosure of a patient’s identification information to other patients might pose data privacy concerns. To tackle such problem, apart from technology introduction and system changes, engaging patients to actively participate in the process of identity verification is believed to be effective in preventing such kind of incidents. To promote such cultural change, an animated education video displaying the importance of correct patient identification was produced.
Objectives :
To engage patients in the process of patient identity verification and educate them about its importance
Methodology :
A workgroup in development of patient education animation was formed in December 2017. The workgroup discussed the script and storyboard with an animation producing contractor.
Result & Outcome :
The animation was produced in May 2018. The importance of identity checking at all patient care processes and the patient’s responsibility in verifying their information before leaving the hospital were highlighted. The animation video was displayed in all waiting areas of Accident and Emergency in the New Territories West Cluster. Staff welcomed the initiative and expressed that patients were more willing to provide their identity information and the chance of workplace violence was lowered. This initiative was presented in the Cluster Correct Patient Identification Committee meeting. The initiative was extended to all Specialist Out-patient Clinics in TMH, POH and TSWH in 3Q 2018. A similar version of the animation was produced for display in the Out-patient setting in 4Q 2020.
