Macharia, Edward. Implementation of a nurse champion role to improve sepsis guideline adherence in the emergency department. Retrieved from https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/t3-rdb7-7930
DescriptionPurpose
The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effect of a nurse champion role on adherence to sepsis guidelines. The guidelines of interest were collection of lactate and blood cultures, administration of antibiotics and intravenous fluids, and repeating of elevated lactate levels.
Methodology
The project was implemented in the emergency department at a 610-bed academic medical center in central New Jersey. Six sepsis nurse champions were recruited and trained on the role. Data on adherence for a period of two months pre- and two months post-intervention were compared.
Results
There was no statistically significant improvement in sepsis guideline adherence. There was improvement in overall adherence, blood culture collection, IVF administration, and repeating lactate levels. There was no change in initial lactate collection. There was a decrease in the rate of appropriate antibiotic administration. The results may have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and additional testing was recommended.
Implications
Significant increase in guideline adherence, if shown on further testing, would mean a nurse champion role is an effective quality improvement strategy in clinical practice. Improving adherence to sepsis guidelines could lead to improved patient outcomes. Adherence to sepsis guidelines is a core measure, monitored by CMS on a national level. Adherence with current guidelines will prepare the hospital to adapt to anticipated new guidelines, which will reduce the time of sepsis care from three hours to one hour. Sepsis nurse champions provided education to their peers on an ongoing basis and during formal education sessions.