The implementation of a clinical pathway for the management of pulmonary embolism in the ambulatory emergency care unit

Hetherington, Lynne (2017) The implementation of a clinical pathway for the management of pulmonary embolism in the ambulatory emergency care unit. Masters dissertation, University of Cumbria. Item availability may be restricted.

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Abstract

Introduction: Changes within the healthcare system over recent years, has meant an increasing demand to provide a more robust sustainable NHS service (Purdy, 2010). Government initiatives and evidence based practice therefore supports new initiatives for healthcare providers to identify, develop and implement changes in practice to improve services and improve patient care (Hughes, 2008). The development of a clinical pathway for the diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism enables a better use of resources without compromising patient care or safety (Panella, Marchisio & Stanislao, 2003).

Findings: The literature review identifies that despite clinical guidelines in place there still remain some areas that can be further developed to improve systems and enhance and improve patient care and the patient experience with regards to PE management. Based on specific criteria PE pathways provide a safe efficient and clear structure for NP`s to work from. Evidence suggests that these clinical pathways can positively impact on waiting times, reduce length of stay and inappropriate admissions (Kinsman, Rotter, James, Snow and Willis, 2010) and (Lakhanpal, Watters, Hughes, Iyer and Babores, 2013).

Conclusion: The proposal for PE clinical pathway in AEC has now been developed and is due to be implemented once training has been completed with support from the steering group, management and employees. Ongoing evaluation and audits of the implementation of the pathway will need to be sustained to ensure the change proposal is effective and to evaluate its success. The dissemination of these results not only within our services but also to the wider audience will continue to establish and embed new ways of working to improve the service of the AEC department within the trust.

Item Type:	Thesis/Dissertation (Masters)
Departments:	Academic Departments > Nursing, Health & Professional Practice (NHPP)
Additional Information:	Dissertation submitted in part fulfilment for the MSc Advanced Practice (Clinical).
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	09 Oct 2017 14:22
Last Modified:	12 Jan 2024 16:47
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/3272