Emergency Department Trauma Redesign in a Level 1 Trauma Centre

SummaryBackgroundThe Trauma Redesign Team sought to examine, and where required redesign, the trauma patient journey and trauma team process within the Emergency Department (ED) at Westmead Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Centre. This initiative was born from the perceived growing disharmony between professions and services involved in the resuscitation and treatment of trauma patients. The aim of the project was to improve the staff experience and the patient journey within the ED.MethodBy adopting Redesign methodology, the ‘as is’ state was identified using a multidisciplinary approach to develop and examine detailed process maps of the trauma patient journey and the staff roles within the trauma team. Patient, family and staff interviews were also conducted to develop a detailed review of the process. Data obtained from these activities were analysed and grouped into themes enabling prioritisation for review and implementation.OutcomeThe process of Trauma Redesign delineated many features of the ‘trauma team’ at Westmead Hospital which were either redundant, non value adding or affecting the cohesion and function of the team. Five predominant themes were identified and targeted for solution development planning and sustainable change, with a focus on patient safety and feasibility.ConclusionRedesign is a complex, inclusive and detailed process that has effectively, comprehensively and clearly highlighted areas of need in the trauma process. This has been an invaluable experience for staff and patients and highly recommended for those considering reviewing their departmental practices and systems.