The effect of repeated audit on the quality of transfer of brain-injured patients into a regional neurosciences centre

Abstract

Brain injury is common and transfer of such patients to a neuroscience centre is a frequently occurring event. Transfer is a time of potential instability and can contribute to physiological changes that could cause secondary brain injury. UK data suggest that there has been a gradual improvement in quality and outcome of transfers of brain-injured patients during the last three decades. The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI) have published guidelines to improve the safety and quality of transfers. Over a seven-year period, we audited transfers four times and implemented three successive interventions aimed at improving the quality of transfers of brain-injured patients into the regional neurosciences centre. We observed a significant improvement in the transfer of patients according to AAGBI guidelines across most domains of patient care. The use of repeated cycles of audit and intervention significantly improved the quality of transfer of brain-injured patients, which could improve patient safety and outcome. © The Intensive Care Society 2012.