The 5S table was introduced as a way of visually organizing equipment to eliminate a recurring task performed by orderlies and improve the patient discharge process.

An inventory of pulse oximeters had to be completed at the end of each shift and a document had to be filled out. Every day, several pulse oximeters were not put back where they should have been by the team. The orderlies had to look for the devices throughout the unit, resulting in a loss of time and some frustration. In addition, nurses use this equipment to discharge patients. They had to go looking for it in the unit during the discharge process.

This very simple project reduced the time spent searching for small devices and therefore improved the work environment. This table allowed teams to complete tasks that provide greater added value for our patients and families.

Project submitted by Skakun Yekaterina, assistant head nurse, and her colleagues at CHU Sainte-Justine