Standardisation
The first medication standardisation in UK anaesthesia was introducing standard user-applied syringe labels in 2003, before which at least six different coloured label systems were in use. In 2014 Rainbow trays adopted this internationally recognised standard into a compartmentalised and standardised tray system for the organisation of perioperative anaesthetic drugs and respective ampoules.
Human Factor engineered to reduce cognitive load, Rainbow Trays have standardised the presentation of anaesthetic syringes and ampoules to reduce the risks of syringe swaps that may lead to medication error.
The standardised organisation of drugs assists as a training aid for new anaesthetists and embeds a culture that can be replicated throughout a department, hospital or trust providing a recognised and trusted addition to anaesthetic practice.
The standard organisation supports anaesthetists who need to take over an ongoing procedure providing an accurate and unambiguous record of previous administrations; essential for when the need to review the progress of administrations becomes necessary. The cognitive capacity that this provides can be vital providing remedial or corrective actions.
“Adequate, uncluttered surface space and appropriate trays, clean for each patient, should be provided for drawing up, arranging and holding the syringes and drugs used in each anaesthetic. Wherever possible, this should be standardised.”
The European Board of Anaesthesiology recommendations for safe medication practice
Eur J Anaesthesiol 2017; 34:4-7
“Anaesthetists are accustomed to the standardisation of controls on anaesthetic machines and other equipment, but many have their own foibles or quirks for arranging the medication work surface. Standardisation is a powerful safety tool, and particularly potent when working in teams; I believe now is the time to introduce standardisation into perioperative medication practices.”
David Whitaker
Chair, Patient Safety Committee, European Board of Anaesthesiology Manchester
“Standardisation has been shown to be an effective mechanism for reducing human error in complex processes or situations.”
Martin Bromiley
Chair, Clinical Human Factors Group
