A successful surgery is the result of seamless collaboration among the surgical team. Each member plays a crucial role, and when they function in harmony, it’s akin to a well-oiled machine, each part perfectly synchronized with the others.
In this two-part blog series, we're diving deeper into the mechanics of surgical teamwork, focusing specifically on the concept of "team familiarity." By examining its key attributes, we aim to uncover how familiarity can lead to improved patient outcomes and more efficient procedures. What strategies can we adopt to ensure our teams operate at peak performance?
One of the standout benefits of team familiarity lies in its ability to enhance overall performance. In the operating room (OR), a cohesive multidisciplinary team works together on shift-based or specialty-based schedules. Over time, as team members work together repeatedly, they build what we call "familiarity." This familiarity has been linked to better performance, especially in terms of reducing operative times. Studies show that more familiar teams tend to make fewer errors, experience fewer disruptions, and see shorter hospital stays and fewer reoperations.
Despite these advantages, logistical challenges often hinder the creation of consistent and familiar teams. Hospitals frequently rely on temporary staff to fill gaps in their rotas, which can disrupt continuity. However, this presents an opportunity for innovation. How can we replicate the positive aspects of familiarity without needing constant team consistency? Could technology offer a solution?
Research suggests that one of the key components of familiar teams is their shared mental model. This refers to the collective understanding team members develop about each other's skills, preferences, and experiences. As teams work together over time, they learn to anticipate each other's actions, which streamlines operations and improves efficiency. This shared understanding is integral to team-building efforts, such as regular debriefings and huddles.
Capturing this shared mental model could unlock new possibilities for enhancing team performance. Imagine if we could digitize this model, making it accessible to new team members or even to entire departments. Technology already allows us to share vast amounts of data, so why not apply this to surgical workflows?
For instance, surgical preference cards are a practical tool that lists a surgeon’s preferred tools and methods for specific procedures. Applications like Assist, developed by Incision, take this a step further. This app enables OR teams to record and access their unique workflows, protocols, and equipment preferences through a mobile interface. It organizes everything by specialty, procedure, and team, ensuring that both seasoned members and newcomers have immediate access to the necessary information.
Another critical aspect of familiarity is the anticipation of each other's actions. When a surgeon and scrub nurse work together regularly, they naturally develop an understanding of each other's routines and responses during surgeries. This understanding minimizes disruptions, such as those caused by incorrect equipment or procedural delays. Research shows that teams with high surgeon-scrub nurse familiarity report fewer workflow issues, errors, and teamwork breakdowns.
Understanding individual preferences and work styles is equally important. Even within the same unit, surgeons may have distinct preferences, such as the type of suture material or positioning of equipment. Familiar teams are aware of these nuances, while unfamiliar staff may struggle to adapt. Tools like Assist help bridge this gap by providing staff with detailed insights into specific team and surgeon preferences, improving their readiness and confidence.
The financial implications of familiarity cannot be overlooked either. Operating rooms are costly environments, with estimates suggesting that OR time costs anywhere from $36 to $150 per minute, depending on location and facility. By shortening operative times and streamlining preparations, familiar teams can significantly reduce costs.
While creating consistent teams may seem challenging, technological solutions offer a path forward. Apps like Assist demonstrate that it is possible to replicate the benefits of familiarity in today's fast-paced healthcare settings. By leveraging technology, we can break down barriers and make the advantages of familiarity accessible to all surgical teams.
At Incision, we are committed to fostering conversations that inspire change and promote teamwork. When we learn together, we grow together. Join us in exploring how technology can transform surgical practices and make a meaningful impact on patient care.
Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook to stay updated on our latest insights and discussions.
Frozen Shrimp Pud,Pud Red Shrimp,Red Prawn Shrimp,Frozen Red Shrimp Pud
Zhoushan Haiwang Seafood Co., Ltd. , https://www.haiwangseafoods.com