Overarching Principles

In this article we’ll be exploring some of the overarching tactics that can be deployed in a transfer service to minimise risks to staff and patients. Later in Week 2 we’ll go on to look in more detail at some specific strategies for minimising risk in transferring critically unwell and mechanically ventilated patients.

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Service Preparation

Minimising risks through service preparation refers to establishing robust and comprehensive referral pathways, adequate training of staff and ensuring all equipment has redundancy and is in a fit state to be used.

Regulations, Standards & Documentation

This refers to the standards and regulations set by central governing bodies to define the quality that we must achieve in service delivery. These standards evidence-based and from learnt lessons, to prevent adverse events from occurring.

Crisis Resource Management & Human Factors

This refers to the non-technical skills required for effective teamwork in a crisis situation. Throughout the course we will be learning from the airline industry about human factors and tools to minimise risk from human error.

Medical Device Design

Starting from the initial planning of medical device design, risks can be minimised. Later on this week and also in Week 3 you’ll get the chance to watch interviews with industry experts explaining how transfer equipment is designed to reduce risk, including those from the mechanical stresses of transfer and from infection transmission.