Standardizing postoperative handoffs using the evidence-based IPASS framework through a multidisciplinary initiative improves handoff communication for neurosurgical patients in the neuro-intensive care unit.

Errors in communication are a major source of preventable medical errors. Neurosurgical patients frequently present to the neuro-intensive care unit (NICU) postoperatively, where handoffs occur to coordinate care within a large multidisciplinary team. A multidisciplinary working group at our institution started an initiative to improve postoperative neurosurgical handoffs using validated quality improvement methodology. Baseline handoff practices were evaluated through staff surveys and serial observations. A formalized handoff protocol was implemented using the evidence based IPASS format (Illness severity, Patient summary, Action list, Situational awareness and contingency planning, Synthesis by receiver). Cycles of objective observations and surveys were employed to track practice improvements and guide iterative process changes over one year. Surveys demonstrated improved perceptions of handoffs as organized (17.1% vs 69.7%, p < 0.001), efficient (27.0% vs. 72.7%, p < 0.001), comprehensive (17.1% vs. 66.7%, p < 0.001), and safe (18.0% vs. 66.7%, p < 0.001), noting improved teamwork (31.5% vs. 69.7%, p < 0.001). Direct observations demonstrated improved communication of airway concerns (47.1% observed vs. 92.3% observed, p < 0.001), hemodynamic concerns (70.6% vs. 97.1%, p = 0.001), intraoperative events (52.9% vs. 100%, p < 0.001), neurological examination (76.5% vs. 100%, p < 0.001), vital sign goals (70.6% vs. 100%, p < 0.001), and required postoperative studies (76.5% vs. 100%, p < 0.001). Receiving teams demonstrating improved rates of summarization (47.1% vs. 94.2%, p = 0.005) and asking questions (76.5% vs 98.1%, p = 0.004). The mean handoff time during long-term follow-up was 4.4 min (95% confidence interval = 3.9-5.0 min). Standardization of handoff practices yields improvements in communication practices for postoperative neurosurgical patients.

Mode of delivery of twin pregnancies with the first twin in breech position after the introduction of a policy of planned caesarean delivery for nulliparous women.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the impact of the mode of delivery of twin pregnancies with the first twin in breech position for all parities combined after introduction of a policy of planned caesarean section in 38 weeks' gestation in nulliparas. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective study of the mode of delivery of twin pregnancies with the first twin in breech position was conducted from January 2007 to December 2015 after the implementation of a planned caesarean section in 38 weeks' gestation in nulliparas. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared according to the decision of attempted vaginal or planned caesarean delivery. RESULTS: Among the 134 women included, an attempted vaginal delivery was decided for 30.6% women (n = 41), with 95% (n = 39) who delivered vaginally and 5% (n = 2) by caesarean section during labour. Among the 69.4% women (n = 93) with a planned caesarean section, 64.5% (n = 60) and 11.8% (n = 11) delivered by caesarean before labour and during labour, respectively, and 23.7% (n = 22) delivered vaginally. The overall vaginal delivery rate was 45.5%, and the overall rate of caesarean section was 54.5% for all parities combined. In nulliparous women, the rate of caesarean section during labour was 33%. There were no significant differences in maternal mortality or morbidity between the two groups. CONCLUSION: A selective policy of attempted vaginal delivery based on parity for twin pregnancies with the first twin in breech position can lead to a reduction in the overall rate of caesarean section in this population.