80 - Radiofrequency Scanning for Sponges

Description: Title: Enhancing Compliance with Radiofrequency Scanning to Prevent Retained Surgical Sponges
Description of the Team:
The St. Elizabeth Operating Room Performance Improvement Team is composed of operating room nurses, resource nurses, and a nurse leader. This interdisciplinary team collaborates to identify and address opportunities for improving patient safety and surgical outcomes across six surgical sites.
Preparation and Planning:
In June 2024, a resource nurse raised concerns about inconsistent compliance with radiofrequency scanning protocols used to prevent retained surgical sponges. Recognizing the potential risk to patient safety, the Performance Improvement Team partnered with the information technology department to develop a monthly report. This report tracked surgical case types, documentation of scan completion, and the assigned circulating nurse. The goal was to establish a data-driven foundation for identifying gaps in compliance and guiding targeted interventions.

Assessment:
Analysis of the report revealed significant variation in scanner functionality and usage across the six sites. Only one location had the most current scanner model, which provided a confirmation code upon scan completion. The remaining five sites lacked this feature, making compliance more difficult to verify. Team members also discussed which surgical cases were exempt from scanning and shared feedback on scanner performance during monthly meetings.
Implementation:
In response to these findings, the Performance Improvement chairs, and nurse leader advocated for the purchase of updated radiofrequency scanners. New scanners were acquired and deployed across all sites in May 2025. Prior to implementation, the Performance Improvement Team emphasized proper scanning and documentation during staff meetings in September 2024. In March 2025, perioperative educators developed an instructional presentation outlining scanner operation and case requirements, which was shared during staff meetings led by perioperative leadership. A vendor representative also provided in-person training on the new equipment.
Outcome:
Following the implementation of new scanners and staff education, all six sites demonstrated improved compliance with radiofrequency scanning protocols. The site with the lowest initial compliance rate improved from 51% to 91%, and all other sites showed measurable gains. These improvements reflect the effectiveness of standardized equipment, targeted education, and ongoing performance monitoring.
Implications for Perioperative Nursing:
This initiative highlights the critical role of perioperative nurses in promoting patient safety through adherence to evidence-based practices. By standardizing technology, enhancing staff education, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the team significantly reduced the risk of retained surgical sponges. This project serves as a model for how nursing leadership and frontline staff can drive meaningful improvements in surgical safety and quality of care.