Healthcare providers highlight patient safety and stroke recognition

In observance of World Patient Safety Day on September 17, medical institutions in Austria and Germany are highlighting protocols to improve patient outcomes and risk management.

Landeskrankenhaus Feldkirch in Austria is focusing on the rapid recognition of stroke symptoms using the FAST test. This method involves checking for facial drooping when smiling, arm weakness when lifting both arms, and speech difficulties. The hospital emphasizes that immediate emergency contact is vital, noting that they treat approximately 750 stroke patients annually. Treatment options include thrombolysis to dissolve blood clots or thrombectomy to remove them via catheter.

In Germany, the RHÖN-KLINIKUM Campus Bad Neustadt is emphasizing safety standards for patients with chronic illnesses. The campus utilizes various risk-reduction tools, such as patient identification wristbands, surgical safety checklists, and the 'four-eyes principle' for medication administration. They also employ a Critical Incident Reporting System (CIRS) to allow staff to report and learn from clinical errors anonymously.