Mrs Kirsty Wallis1
1Silverchain SA, Australia
Biography:
I have now worked in palliative care for 30 years both inpatient and community. Currently I am lucky enough to be the National Palliative care Clinical nurse educator for Silverchain.
The best part of my position is being able to cascade experience and knowledge to new staff starting out, all the while continuing to learn myself. I am privileged to be in a position where my passion for palliative care can stay alive. Availability of amazing contemporary resources means my position is tremendously supported. I am working in palliative care education at a brilliant time.
Abstract:
Background:
Close the Loop was born from the lack of community experienced staff throughout COVID.
Staffing difficulties leant to less experienced staff providing palliative care.
Faced with limited possibilities to upskill staff, we sought innovative solutions to enhance safety, consistency, and clinical robustness in practice. Our commitment to delivering high standards of care led to the creation of the Close the Loop concept. A clear, practical framework designed to ensure clinical excellence—every time, for every client.
Aims:
1.To develop, standardise and implement a process which supports all staff.
2.To develop a step-by-step process defining the breakdown of information, preparedness, assessment and escalation.
3.To promote access to accurate and current information reflecting assessments, escalation and outcomes.
4.To embed Palliative care standards into the Close the Loop concept.
Methods:
1.Close the Loop was developed through collating staff learnings and reflections.
2.One to one teaching sessions clearly identified gaps in knowledge and practice and a need to develop a practical, applicable and standardised principles and process.
3.Consultation with RDNS palliative care staff assisted in identifying knowledge and confidence gaps.
4.Collation of facts assisted with developing and capturing accurate and simple processes to follow.
Results:
1.Close the loop is now embedded in the SCG-SA Palliative Care induction program.
2.In house education sessions reflect and include Close the loop principles.
3.SCG learning design team have developed branded Power points demonstrating Close the loop.
4.Continuing education and peer support embeds Close the loop principles in the Buddy and Novice probation space.
Conclusions:
A clear, concise and standardised process empowers staff to seek the highest level of clinical excellence whilst feeling confident to deliver accurate assessment and handovers to teams resulting in optimal holistic client care.