Collaborative Cross-Checking

What is Collaborative Cross-Checking?

As hospital clinicians, we navigate complex medical scenarios daily, armed with our expertise and the information available to us. Yet, despite our best efforts, the intricacies of patient care can sometimes elude us. This is where the concept of collaborative cross-checking emerges as a powerful tool in our clinical arsenal.

Collaborative cross-checking involves at least two individuals or groups with different perspectives examining each other’s assumptions and actions to assess validity or accuracy (Patterson et al., 2007). It acknowledges that no single person possesses all the information needed for comprehensive patient care, particularly within the dynamic environment of a hospital setting.

Consider this scenario: a concerned family member remarks, “I know you guys think my mother’s confused because she has dementia, which she does have, but she always recognizes me and she doesn’t this morning, something’s not quite right.” This simple statement encapsulates the essence of collaborative cross-checking. It highlights the importance of exchanging information between team members to ensure the accuracy of our assessments and actions.

Benefits of Collaborative Cross-Checking

Research indicates that resilient hospital units integrate mechanisms for collaborative cross-checking, resulting in fewer adverse drug events (Leape et al., 1999). Moreover, interdisciplinary rounds involving the entire care team in intensive care units have been associated with reduced mortality rates and increased patient satisfaction and quality of work life (Uhlig et al., 2002).

Practical Application: Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds

Truly effective rounding teams embrace collaborative cross-checking intentionally and with vigor. They recognize its pivotal role in enhancing patient care and approach it with diligence and energy. By deliberately challenging assumptions and verifying information, these teams ensure that no stone is left unturned in pursuit of accurate and comprehensive care.

In conclusion, collaborative cross-checking stands as a cornerstone of clinical excellence in hospital settings. By fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and information is scrutinized collectively, we empower ourselves to deliver the highest standard of care to our patients. Let us embrace the practice of collaborative cross-checking wholeheartedly, knowing that it is through collaboration and shared knowledge that we truly shine as clinicians.

References

Patterson, E., Woods, D., Cook, R. & Render, M., 2007. Collaborative cross-checking to enhance resilience. Cognition, Technology & Work, 9, 155-162.

Leape, L.L., Cullen, D.J., Clapp, M.D., Burdick, E., Demonaco, H.J., Erickson, J.I. & Bates, D.W., 1999. Pharmacist Participation on Physician Rounds and Adverse Drug Events in the Intensive Care Unit. JAMA, 282, 267-270.

Uhlig, P.N., Brown, J., Nason, A.K., Camelio, A. & Kendall, E., 2002. System Innovation: Concord Hospital. Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 28, 666-672.