Date of Degree

Summer 2024

Document Type

DNP Scholarly Project

Academic Department

School of Nursing

Degree Type

Doctoral

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

First Advisor

Dr. Melanie Brewer

Second Advisor

Dr. Corinne Cochran

Abstract

An estimated 85-99% of alarms in the intensive care unit (ICU) do not require nursing intervention. This overabundance of non-actionable alarms can contribute to sensory overload and is a significant factor in alarm-related safety events. The aim of this project was to reduce the prevalence of non-actionable alarms through the implementation of an evidence-based alarm management bundle. The CEASE Bundle, a comprehensive five-step protocol encompassing Communication, Electrodes, Appropriateness, Setup, and Education, was implemented in an 11-bed surgical intensive care unit. Continuous alarm data was collected for 12 weeks before and 12 weeks after the implementation of the bundle for comparative analysis. The implementation of the CEASE bundle resulted in a 94% reduction in non-actionable alarms and a 35% reduction in the total number of alarms when compared to the 12-week pre-implementation period. This quality improvement project has demonstrated a sustainable reduction in the number of non-actionable alarms, contributing to improved patient safety and the well-being of healthcare professionals.

Rights

Copyright, all rights reserved

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