A Simple Solution for a Complex Problem: The "Sterile Cockpit" to Improve Ward Rounds.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ward-round quality impacts patient outcomes, and poor conduct results in increased rates of preventable adverse events. Despite being a core component of patient outcomes, there is minimal literature informing best practice. The aviation industry has mitigated human error using a "Sterile Cockpit" to reduce interruptions and non-essential activities. This study investigated the impact of a "Sterile Cockpit" intervention on surgical ward rounds.

Methods

This prospective experimental study involved audio-visually recording ward rounds. The intervention was a novel "Sterile Cockpit" zone involving the allocation of roles, no interruptions, one speaker at a time, invitation for nursing/allied health contribution, and "checkback" of the plan. The control group was a no

SUBMITTER: Treloar E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12515027 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature