Using a rigorous implementation approach, Professor James O’Beirne, Sunshine Coast Health Consultant Hepatologist and Griffith University School of Medicine and Dr Angela Carberry, SCHI Research Program Manager planned to use a stepwise implantation and evaluation approach on a recent model of care project titled Endoscopist-Directed Nurse-Administered Propofol Sedation (EDNAPS) for the delivery of low risk endoscopic procedures. This approach was designed to be scalable and transferable across health services in Australia.
Professor O’Beirne highlighted the importance of the implementation component, noting that it was central to the model’s broader applicability. He acknowledged the contribution of Dr Carberry and the SCHI team in generating robust implementation data, emphasising that, ‘as a clinician, not traditionally strong on implementation science, the implementation part of this work was really, important because that’s what makes it transportable to other health services.’
Dr Carberry described the use of the SCHI-led translational simulation as a key factor underpinning the success of the model. The project engaged an interdisciplinary group including anaesthetist-led simulation sessions, desktop simulation, and involvement from nursing and administration staff from the start. This comprehensive preparation ensured staff confidence and readiness prior to implementation, contributing to successful adoption. ‘What has resulted is a safe model of care that has been thoroughly evaluated and is a testament to what SCHI can deliver and showcases the skills and talent available within SCHI.’ Professor O’Beirne noted.
An additional outcome of the project was mentoring a novice researcher and junior doctor, Dr Ameya Godambe through all stages of the research process, including data collection, writing the manuscript, submission and revision. He has now taken on another project with the SCHI team. Professor O’Beirne explained, ‘This is how you build research capacity. It is a good reflection on what SCHI can produce in terms of translating ideas into health service improvement.’
Clinically, the EDNAPS model demonstrated a significant reduction in recovery time compared with standard anaesthetic models, attributable to the use of lower doses of anaesthetic agents. This reduction translated into decreased time spent in the post-anaesthetic care unit and improved patient throughput, enabling a greater number of patients to be treated.
At a time when there is rapidly increase in demand for endoscopic procedures and a predicted shortfall of anaesthetic clinicians in Queensland, it’s a model of care that speaks for itself.