Experience of Setting up a Post Discharge Virtual Nurse Led Trauma Clinic
Authors List
Denize, B., Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand
Marsden, G., Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand
Introduction
Improving Māori and Rural community health outcomes by eliminating health inequities and supporting access - using technology to deliver accessible, affordable and efficient services is one of the priorities of Te Whatu Ora Waikato (WDHB, 2016). With this purpose in March 2019, a clinic was commenced for post discharge support and coordinated care for major trauma patients.
Aims
Provide timely access to clinical advice, education, support through Telehealth and culturally appropriate and holistic trauma care; improved patient, whanau and staff satisfaction and reduce readmission and “missed appointments” by using nurses for coordination who are familiar to the patient (Beaton et al., 2019).
Methods
Patients discharged home with an ISS>13 and managed under the Trauma bed card were selected. Appointments were 30 minutes and within 2 weeks of discharge. Questions, safety net plan and referral pathway were formulated with evidence based input from multidisciplinary specialties. Patient feedback post clinic experience was collected using semi structured interviews and outcome and process measures.
Results
111 patients received a follow up nurse-led clinic from 1st May 2019 – March 2023. 12/12 patients interviewed rated the clinic as very good or excellent. Patients reported issues were clarified and it was helpful to remain at home even though the technology aspect has opportunities for improvement. The patients and whanau found it advantageous that the service is provided by someone who knows them from the hospital.
Conclusions
The post discharge virtual trauma clinic is effective in providing support, navigation and guidance for patients. Ongoing evaluation is needed.
References
1. Beaton, A., O'Leary, K., Thorburn, J., Campbell, A., Christey, G. (2019). Improving patient experience and outcomes following serious injury. International Journal of Integrated Care, 19(4), 79.
2. Waikato District Health Board. (2016). Healthy People Excellent Care: Waikato District Health Board Strategy. Retrieved July 21, 2023 from Te Whatu Ora Waikato intranet
Denize, B., Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand
Marsden, G., Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand
Introduction
Improving Māori and Rural community health outcomes by eliminating health inequities and supporting access - using technology to deliver accessible, affordable and efficient services is one of the priorities of Te Whatu Ora Waikato (WDHB, 2016). With this purpose in March 2019, a clinic was commenced for post discharge support and coordinated care for major trauma patients.
Aims
Provide timely access to clinical advice, education, support through Telehealth and culturally appropriate and holistic trauma care; improved patient, whanau and staff satisfaction and reduce readmission and “missed appointments” by using nurses for coordination who are familiar to the patient (Beaton et al., 2019).
Methods
Patients discharged home with an ISS>13 and managed under the Trauma bed card were selected. Appointments were 30 minutes and within 2 weeks of discharge. Questions, safety net plan and referral pathway were formulated with evidence based input from multidisciplinary specialties. Patient feedback post clinic experience was collected using semi structured interviews and outcome and process measures.
Results
111 patients received a follow up nurse-led clinic from 1st May 2019 – March 2023. 12/12 patients interviewed rated the clinic as very good or excellent. Patients reported issues were clarified and it was helpful to remain at home even though the technology aspect has opportunities for improvement. The patients and whanau found it advantageous that the service is provided by someone who knows them from the hospital.
Conclusions
The post discharge virtual trauma clinic is effective in providing support, navigation and guidance for patients. Ongoing evaluation is needed.
References
1. Beaton, A., O'Leary, K., Thorburn, J., Campbell, A., Christey, G. (2019). Improving patient experience and outcomes following serious injury. International Journal of Integrated Care, 19(4), 79.
2. Waikato District Health Board. (2016). Healthy People Excellent Care: Waikato District Health Board Strategy. Retrieved July 21, 2023 from Te Whatu Ora Waikato intranet
