Introduction
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Ulster Hospital provides a regional service for head and neck trauma in Northern Ireland. When a facial fracture occurs, the Dental Core Trainee is contacted to collect essential information for the OMFS consultant to make an informed decision at the daily Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) meeting regarding management of the patient. The aim of this Quality Improvement project (QIP) is to improve trauma call data collection from 57% to 91% by January 2025.
Methods
The QI tool was implemented to make this change. Baseline data was collected with the aid of a pareto chart. A driver diagram helped focus the necessary tasks and a proforma to collect data for the VFC was designed. The aim was set and outcome, process and balancing measures identified. Four PDSAs were implemented, each with improving results.
Results
The collection of correct data for the VFC improved from 57% in September 2024 to 91% by January 2025. Improved DCT knowledge and confidence in handling trauma referrals was observed, along with less time needed to review referrals due to having the correct data. However, there was an increase in administration time for the on-call DCT.
Conclusion
This QIP has notably improved trauma referral data collection in four months. It has made VFC morning meetings more efficient and ensured all necessary information is gathered, helping consultants make better decisions about patient treatment. The VFC proforma has boosted DCT confidence and knowledge but has also increased the DCT's administrative workload.
Authors
Shona Mathew
Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Ulster Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom
Muhammad Umer Iftikhar
Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Ulster Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom
Kerry O'Brien
Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Ulster Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom