Real-time documentation and quieter days

New equipment in the wards led to optimised documentation and quieter days for patients and caregivers
In 2021, we followed the exciting project "Real-time documentation together with the patient - and better working days for carers". Here, a new ward layout was tested and the results were more real-time documentation, dialogue with the patient and calmer days for caregivers.

Challenges identified and selected for trials
For 11 weeks, a team of fellows from BMD observed staff at the hospital, focusing on health technology solutions, among other things. In collaboration with the staff, challenges were identified and real-time documentation was chosen as the topic for a four-week trial in two test rooms. The project was carried out by an innovation consultant from BioMedical Design (BMD) in collaboration with a project group of staff from Kolding Hospital Lillebælt's Organ Surgical Department.

The project was based on two main challenges:
1) There was a lack of a place for staff to sit at a computer and create real-time documentation in dialogue with the patient. Patient data was often entered on computers in the corridor or office, for example.

2) Staff spent a lot of time fetching relevant equipment such as measuring tools every time they were needed.

Lillebælt Hospital wanted to make the experience better for patients, while creating less strain for carers.

Rethinking access to equipment in the ward led to optimised workflows
A flexible and ergonomic table with a computer, keyboard and mouse was placed in each test room. In addition, a cabinet with relevant equipment was placed in each room so that carers did not have to fetch it from elsewhere.

The conclusion was that nursing staff could more easily perform real-time documentation on the ward in dialogue with the patient. At the same time, having relevant equipment available in the ward freed up time for patient contact, for example. The nursing staff on the ward at Lillebælt Hospital experienced optimised workflows and closer contact with the patient.

Watch a short video summarising the project