Tips for Increasing Efficiency in a Medical Workplace
Unfortunately, if staff members aren’t working efficiently, the patients suffer. They don’t receive the care they need when they need it. An inefficient workplace also causes issues for the staff. It creates a stressful work environment, which can harm efficiency even further and make it difficult to maintain your staffing. However, with overbed tables, technology, and establishing protocol, among other improvements, you may increase productivity in a healthcare facility.
Overbed Table
An overbed table doesn’t just benefit patients. A table may act as a workspace for a busy nurse or aid. It may act as a storage space. While hospitals almost always have these tables, and so do other medical facilities, it’s important to select a design that works for both the patients and team members. It could help to select one that has an LED light or another advancement that your personnel can utilize.
Technology
Technology is changing the way people live on a daily basis. Did you ever think you would be able to order a pizza through an app or turn on the lights in your home from your cellular device? The same applies to the medical field; technology is changing greatly and rapidly. It’s important to keep up with the latest technologies in products that could enhance your facility. For instance, if you haven’t upgraded to electronic medical records (EMR), it may be time to consider it. Although technology has its share of benefits in terms of productivity, it’s important to not assume your staff may keep up with the advancements. Some people grew up with limited technology while other staff members have no interest in keeping up with technology. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct staff meetings and training sessions, so all of your employees are on the same page.
Create Protocols
Think about what patient care consists of or evaluate what the responsibilities of other professionals at your building are. While it’s beneficial for employees to remain independent and require little intervention from management, they may not have adapted the most efficient practices. Determine an efficient plan of action and educate your staff on the steps that enhance efficiency.
Receive Employee Feedback
If you’re not performing their job every day, you don’t have any idea about the true struggles of your employees. Hold regular meetings, let your staff know you’re available any time, and even create a suggestion box to help you identify areas of weakness. Hear your employees’ feelings and complaints and look for solutions.
Working in a medical facility often becomes an overwhelming experience when so many tasks are due in such a small timeframe. That doesn’t take into account the fact that emergencies may arise at any time. While incorporating an overbed table in every room and improving technology help with efficiency, it’s most beneficial to listen to sentiments of your staff.
