EPiC: Engaging Patients and Companions
Lisa Ip1 1Royal Perth Bentley Group, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
Abstract
Background: Allocating a 1:1 companion is one of the many patient care interventions used for “at risk” patients due to an identified need for a higher level of care or observation to support a patient’s safety. The Royal Perth Bentley Group (RPBG) special and supportive observation policy states: “What keeps people safe is not the act of being under surveillance; rather, it is the quality of engagement between that individual and staff”. The EPiC project is an opportunity to increase the levels of engagement between patients and companions.
Objective: To increase the levels of engagement between patients and companions at Bentley Health Service Ward 1.
Method: The DMAIC (Design, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) method was utilised to improve the engagement between patients and companions. A process mapping session was conducted with stakeholders to map the journey from when the decision is made that a companion is required to when they are no longer required. Issues raised during this session include staff education, resourcing, communication breakdown and organisational limitations. Data was gathered to validate these issues through file audits, surveys, interviews and an observation study.
Outcomes: Optimisation of patient handover, coaching, education and teamwork, activity resource boxes, implementation of the “Companion Booklet” and a “Welcome to Ward 1 AIN Orientation Information” sheet including a section on the expectations of the companion role.
Conclusions: Improved patient engagement, optimised use of AIN companion staff time, positive patient experience and improved patient care quality.
Biography
Lisa Ip is a Senior Occupational Therapist who works at the Royal Perth Bentley Group, currently at Bentley Health Service within the Discharge Support Team. Lisa has worked across a number of acute, subacute and community settings over the past 10 years. Lisa has a special interest in working holistically with adults and those with complex needs, to help them achieve their goals, and improve their wellbeing and quality of life.