Transition to intensive care nursing: a state-wide, workplace centred program-12 years on.

In November 1999, the Queensland Health (QH) Transition to Practice Nurse Education Program - Intensive Care (TPNEP-IC) was initiated in QH Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across Queensland. This 12-month, state-wide, workplace based education program has set minimum standards for intensive care nursing education and therefore minimum standards for intensive care nursing practice in QH. In the 12 years of operation, 824 nurses have completed TPNEP-IC, 761 achieving academic credit status and 453 utilising this academic credit status to undertake postgraduate study in critical/intensive care nursing at three Queensland universities.

Prosthetic inventory management.

An improved approach to inventory management in the Operating Theatre has been initiated at Princess Alexandra Hospital. A Clinical Resource Co-ordinator (CRC) position was created to provide access to expertise in purchasing and materials management at the clinical level. A review of existing inventory management practices conducted by the CRC revealed reporting inadequacies, lack of product specialisation and inadequate control over pricing, stock levels and product usage.

The Innovative Ward Project: promoting innovation in health service delivery.

An Innovative Ward Project was undertaken as part of the planning for redevelopment of the Princess Alexandra Hospital. Two inpatient units (one medical and one surgical) became pilot areas for developing, implementing and evaluating innovative approaches to service delivery. The project focused on the key areas related to structural environment, information technology and redesign of work practices.