Ideas That Work: Solve The Problem for Everyone

The patient is prepped and draped, and I'm seated to begin my charting. Only then do I realize that I've forgotten to record the serial number of the SCD box. I'd have to hop up and crawl underneath the drapes. I can't tell you how many times this happened.

I came up with what I thought was a good solution. I'd write the SCD serial number on the surgeon's gown card at the beginning of my shift and set it on the computer for all of my cases that day. Problem solved for me, but not for everyone. In true innovative spirit, my friend Kirsty, a staff nurse, solved the problem for everyone. One evening after her cases wrapped up, Kirsty went to the front desk to get the label maker. In 30 minutes, she had gone to every OR and stuck the SCD box number on the cord where it plugs into the wall by the nurse's computer.

James Nideffer, RN, BSN
Surgical Services Scripps Health
San Diego, Calif.
[email protected]