Risk assessment of psychiatric in-patients: audit of completion of a risk assessment tool

Abstract

Aims and MethodTwo complete audit cycles were used to assess the completion of a bespoke risk assessment tool and whether an educational intervention, and subsequently the introduction of a standardised admission pack, led to improvements in completion rates.ResultsThe total rate of completion of forms improved from 60% to 81% following a brief educational intervention in the form of a lecture and email about the audit. The subsequent introduction of a standardised admission pack containing the tool maintained completion rates.Clinical ImplicationsAudit coupled with a simple educational intervention can improve the completion of risk assessment forms by medical and nursing staff.

Does an admission booklet improve patient safety?

“…This records several historical, precipitating and protective factors under four broad risk headings of self-harm, violence, neglect and other risks (Masson et al, 2008).…”

Mind the gap – using clinical audit to minimise medication information errors at hospital discharge

“…The findings of improvements in record keeping after the introduction of written guidance or protocols are consistent with other audits, which have shown similar effects for the completion of risk assessments. 6 Clinical audit can be used to improve communication between hospitals and GPs. It is, however, labour intensive and sustaining the improvement can prove difficult given constant medical and administrative staff turnover or absences when staff are on leave or off sick.…”