Let's Achieve This!

 

Some Keys to Success

• Make sure that we fully combine the hospital, pump, and electronic health record software
• Constantly monitor the project for success or need for improvement
• Consider costs of this initiative, including the training for the nurses
• Ensure that all equipment is being updated on a regular basis, to make sure that all signals are working
• Make sure that all safety features are active
• Keep logs of all IV pumps, and label them with specific identification numbers
• Analyze the drug library for validity and compliance
• In case of malfunction, have an alternative option to administer IV medications to patients
• Assign super users for the training to assist in the roll-out and throughout the entire implementation
• Ensure that nurses have hands-on training 
• Identify a contact for any issues that need to be reported

For many organizations, interoperability through combined systems seem to be out of reach, but I believe that for this organization, it is completely feasible. We need to optimize the use of our IV infusion pumps, and add these features that are readily available for all. We will not only achieve a better integration of technology, but will also improve our infusion safety, quality of care, nurse satisfaction, and most importantly, patient safety. Let's hold onto this vision, and come on, let's take the first step!