A mixed methods study to effectively utilize trigger tools in the ICU

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to create a trigger tool for our intensive care units (ICUs) to support our departmental quality improvement efforts. Methods We compiled an initial list of triggers used in an ICU setting through literature review. We used a modified Delphi method to develop a unique set of triggers. An expert panel was selected for multidisciplinary and multi-site representation from four adult medical-surgical ICUs of a Canadian city. Respondents ranked triggers on a Likert scale based on its likelihood of being associated with adverse event (sensitivity to harm), and likelihood of being associated with suboptimal ICU processes (specificity for internal recommendations). Outcomes Our literature search yielded 10 articles and 59 triggers. Completion of the rating process resulted in 12 items that achieved consensus. Triggers included specific clinical, hospital-acquired infection, medication related, and procedural occurrences. One additional trigger (cardiopulmonary arrest) which consistently held high scores but did not achieve multidisciplinary consensus, was also included. Conclusions We used the modified Delphi process to derive consensus-selected triggers to identify ICU specific adverse events with opportunity for improvement in local care. This methodology can be adopted by other centers looking to introduce trigger tools in a manner selective to their practice needs.