Nursing documentation for chemotherapy in a university hospital's bone marrow transplant unit: a best practice implementation project.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this evidence implementation project was to improve the documentation of chemotherapy administration by nursing staff in a bone marrow transplant unit, to improve patient care and safety, as well as meet the legal and educational responsibilities of the nursing staff.

Methods: This evidence implementation project used the Joanna Briggs Institute's Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research into Practice audit and feedback framework for the design and development of an evidence-based audit and feedback change project. A baseline audit was conducted to assess current practices against best practice and identify areas requiring improvement. Next, the project team reflected on the results of the audit to develop and implement strategies for documentation improvement. Lastly, a follow-up audit was conducted to assess changes in practice improvement.

Results: The baseline audit results revealed practice areas requiring improvement; facilitators of and barriers to nursing documentation and practice improvement were identified. A checklist, educational session, Nursing Documentation Guidelines for Chemotherapy Administration, was implemented to improve nursing documentation. The follow-up audit demonstrated improved adherence across all audit criteria.

Conclusion: The checklist implemented for nursing documentation and education contributed to improved practices. To promote additional improvements, nurses will continue to utilize the tools developed and receive continued education through formal training and staff meetings. Future auditing is planned to ensure sustainability.