FP6.10 - Improving Compliance & Implementation of WHO Surgical Safety Checklist At a Tertiary Level Hospital in India: A continuous process

Abstract Aim To complete an audit on the level of compliance with the WHO surgical safety checklist in surgical operating theatres at a Tertiary level hospital in India. Method A total of 40 general surgeries were observed at the operating theatres at a tertiary-level hospital in India to confirm the practice of the WHO surgical safety checklist. The study was conducted for 1 month in September 2021. The results were compared with standard guidelines and further analyzed. Interventions were carried out through a series of rigorous departmental meetings and discussions with the medical and nursing staff. A re-audit was conducted. Results Of all the operations audited, 45% Sign-In and only 1% Sign-Out were performed in the first cycle. After the re-audit, a significant change was reported as the Sign-In improved to 80%, and a 55% Sign-Out was conducted. The Time-Out was observed to increase from 15% to 65%. Compliance in the final third cycle showed improvement in Sign-In at 95%, Sign-Out at 85%, and Time-Out at 90%. Conclusion Though in the first cycle of our audit, the compliance to the SSCL was found to be suboptimal, significant improvement was demonstrated in the second cycle and eventually in the final third cycle bringing it closer to 100% compliance, after rigorous awareness programs and training sessions. Compliance with all items in the checklist and active participation by all medical and nursing staff is mandatory for the successful implementation of the Surgical safety checklist.