Environment
Within the SEIPS model, environment refers to the physical setting in which healthcare is provided. This can be considered at different levels. At a macro level, we may consider the physical terrain of a country and population concentration in the layout of national resources. At an intermediate meso level, we may consider hospital design and layout. Finally, at a micro level, we consider the immediate workspace; which may need to include characteristics such as layout, noise, temperature, or airflow.
Activity and Resources |
MacroAt a Macro Level, the 2018 opening of an international office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia reflects the College’s global outlook and reflects the aims of its International Strategy. The Global Surgery Foundation works to tackle inequalities in surgical care on a global scale by working in partnership with local agencies to build sustainable surgical capacity in communities suffering from a chronic shortage. The Foundation has ongoing projects in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Malawi, and Haiti. Similarly, the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care has helped establish pre-hospital care systems in several countries including Nepal, Sri Lanka, and China. The Faculty of Remote, Rural, and Humanitarian Healthcare, putting understanding of local context at its core, facilitates shared learning between groups in different isolated, resource-limited locations be it an Island community in South East Asia or an oil rig in the North Sea. |
MesoAt a Meso level, the RCSEd report on ‘Improving the Working Environment for Safe Surgical Care’ made recommendations regarding local team structures, rota design, and rest facilities. In 2019 RCSEd carried out a survey which evidenced the extent of non-consultant hospital doctors’ concerns about their ability to deliver safe out of hours care. The survey found that there were five key areas (electronic systems, supervision, training, staffing, facilities) requiring improvement. This report used this survey data and examples of best practice to provide a proactive guideline to support trainee surgeons and protect patient out of hours. The College runs a regular Addressing Conflict in Surgical Teams workshop which explores the causes of conflict with the surgical workplace and provides training in strategies to address this. |
MicroTechniques to control the micro-environment feature in ergonomics workshops and are highlighted in non-technical skills training with techniques to minimise distractions and optimise conditions during critical phases of work. |
Learn more about the other areas of the SEIPS model here.
