Audit of a dementia healthcare passport to improve quality of care and communication for people living with dementia when attending the operating theatre department

Abstract

Introduction:

An operating department can be a challenging fast-paced environment. This audit sought to identify patients living with dementia arriving for surgery that did not have information to support their care. People living with dementia are at increased risk of functional and cognitive decline upon admittance to hospital.

Method:

A baseline clinical audit involving stakeholders assessed current practices. The Living with Dementia Theatre Passport was introduced to present key information clearly and support communication during perioperative care.

Results:

Pre-intervention, none of the 12 patients had a ‘This is Me’ document, causing delays and increased costs. Post-intervention, 12 of 15 patients arrived with the Living with Dementia Theatre Passport. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Conclusion:

The ‘Living with Dementia Theatre Passport’ has the potential to enhance the patient experience and healthcare outcomes during theatre procedures and to increase proficiency due to reduced costs associated with poor information gathering.