Table 5

Interventions to reduce information transfer and communication failures

InterventionsNo. of healthcare professionalsNo. of times

  • Memory aids

    • Checklists/protocols/proformas

    • Postoperative communication/handover sheet

15 (S=6, A=4, N=5)21

  • Technology interventions

    • Electronic information and communication record

    • Smart card containing updated patients' information

8 (S=3, A=4, N=1)9

  • System changes

    • Email from pre-assessment to surgical team

    • Risk assessment unit to be established (joint decision unit for patient, anaesthetist and surgeon)

9 (S=5, A=2, N=2)15

  • Cultural changes

    • Increased interdisciplinary communication

    • Patient should be part of communication pathway

    • Juniors feel free to call seniors

11 (S=5, A=3, N=3)17

  • A, anaesthetists; N, nurses; S, surgeons.