Optimized Application of QR Codes in Operating Room Work – Second Prize Winner in Nursing "Five Small" Innovation Competition

Original article: https://cli.im/article/detail/2276

First, let's showcase our final product. Feel free to scan and experience it:

We will explain our QR code solution from four aspects: background, development process, features, and applications.

Background Introduction

"A craftsman must sharpen his tools to do good work."

As specialized nurses, our familiarity with surgical instruments directly impacts surgical coordination quality. Beyond basic instrument knowledge, surgical instrument counting remains critical for safety assurance. How have we traditionally managed this?

Initially, we used handwritten records. However, inconsistent naming conventions caused confusion – e.g., a common tissue forceps might be called "Allis," "rat-tooth forceps," or other names. Some instruments even lacked standardized names, forcing us to use vague terms like "additional instruments," resulting in inconsistent documentation and non-standard records.

Later, we introduced illustrated manuals. While visual references improved accuracy, paper-based catalogs couldn't keep pace with frequent instrument updates from new surgical techniques. Moreover, the bulky manuals proved inconvenient for quick reference.

This led us to develop department-specific information QR codes – leveraging ubiquitous QR code technology and hospital digitalization trends.

QR codes offer electronic data storage, zero material costs, intuitive interfaces, and convenient operation.

Development Process

1. Data Collection & Organization

   • Photographed systematically arranged surgical instruments
   • Cataloged instrument types, names, and quantities
   • Created standardized surgical instrument checklists

2. Platform Implementation

   • Uploaded organized content to CaoLiao QR Code Platform
   • Optimized page layouts and content structure

Initial versions used directory-style interfaces without search functionality, requiring manual scrolling. After iterative improvements, we developed an optimized control panel achieving:

• Clear categorization
• Intuitive navigation
• Visual hierarchy

The final version features six main surgical categories. Each category contains detailed subdirectories for precise instrument lookup.

Key Features & Advantages

1. Enhanced Training Tool

   • Standardizes instrument nomenclature
   • Facilitates new nurse onboarding

2. Dynamic Updates

   • Supports new surgical techniques
   • Maintains clinical relevance

3. Improved Collaboration

   • Enables clear instrument tracking between OR and CSSD
   • Eliminates ambiguity in lost instrument identification

4. Operational Efficiency

   • Mobile accessibility
   • Real-time updates
   • Visual learning support

Extended Applications

Building on instrument catalog success, we expanded to:

• Department management systems
• Complex endoscopic surgery guides
• Protocol documentation

These implementations have:

• Increased policy engagement
• Enhanced learning motivation
• Created knowledge-sharing culture

We continue refining our digital workflow integration, committed to advancing operating room informatization.

Original article reprint from WeChat Public Account: Jiyuan Second Hospital
《Second Prize in Nursing Innovation: Optimized QR Code Applications in OR》