Question

The nurse is serving on a committee to implement new cardiorespiratory monitors in the unit. What actions can the committee recommend to avoid the common mistakes that can occur during the change process? (Select all that apply.)

A) Identify the pros and cons of the new system as compared to the old system.
B) Allow adequate time for the staff to learn how to work the monitors before installing them.
C) Provide a resource person knowledgeable about the new monitors when they are put in use.
D) Keeping the old procedure in place for use of the monitors to prevent confusion.
E) Install the new monitors the day after informing the unit about the change.

Answer 1

When implementing new cardiorespiratory monitors, it is essential to identify pros and cons, allow time for staff training, and provide knowledgeable resources. Keeping old procedures or rushing installation can lead to confusion and errors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Implementing new cardiorespiratory monitors in a medical unit involves a comprehensive change process that must account for various factors to avoid common pitfalls. Some actions that the committee could recommend are:

• Identify the pros and cons of the new system as compared to the old system to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks that may arise.
• Allow adequate time for staff training on the new monitors to ensure that everyone is comfortable and proficient with the new technology before it is put into use.
• Have a resource person available who is knowledgeable about the new monitors when they are installed. This person can assist staff with any questions or issues that may arise during the initial use phase.
• It may not be prudent to keep old procedures in place once the new monitors have been installed, as it can lead to confusion. Instead, a clear transition plan should be developed.
• Installing new monitors without proper advance notice to the staff is inadvisable. Sufficient information and preparation time are essential for a smooth transition.

These actions are informed by methodologies used in other high-stakes fields, such as aviation, where checklists and clear communication protocols play a critical role in ensuring safety. The checklist approach, as proposed by Dr. Pronovost, highlights the importance of multidisciplinary team verification and communication to avoid errors during medical procedures.