Before converting to a new electronic medical system (Connect Care), Problem Lists (PL) were routinely used by all Geriatric physicians. However, there has been minimal use of its PL navigator. This study aimed for 80% of patients admitted to Geriatrics (Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) unit) or seen in consultation (Geriatric Assessment Team (GAT)) at the University of Alberta Hospital should have their PL reviewed at all transitions of care (ACE unit) or with initial consultation (GAT).
The study was conducted from March to November 2022. Initial physician feedback revealed a variety of reasons for poor PL navigator uptake which formed the basis for the intervention, which was a formal education session for physicians which addressed these reasons, presented during a divisional meeting. Physician feedback was also collected post-intervention.
One education session was held, attended by all physicians. The average duration for reviewing the problem list was 7.8 mins. Run charts revealed data shifts towards increased PL review at patient admission and PL incorporation into ACE notes, but decreased at transfers of care and with GAT consults. There was a trend towards increased problem duplication.
The intervention was positively received, but led to minimal changes in behavior, and a trend towards increased problem duplication. Shifts were most noticeable for ACE patients, suggestive of this being the best target for further intervention. Although the study did not meet its aim, there was evidence of possible changes in behavior, and further exploration of existing barriers is required.

Authors:
Frances Carr, University of Alberta, Canada

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Frances Carr is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at University of Alberta in Canada

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