Ideas That Work: Peer Pressure

Ideas That Work

By: Outpatient Surgery Editors

Published: 5/14/2021

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Code Word Keeps Staff on Their Toes


SUBTLE CUE Discreet reminders alert staff to follow protocols without drawing unwanted attention to the situation.  |  Carson McCafferty

Have you ever noticed a colleague not following hand hygiene protocols or forgetting to wipe down equipment with the proper cleaning products? It can be uncomfortable to call them out, especially in front of a patient. We use the code word “unicorn” anytime another staff member is caught not following our facility’s infection control practices. All we have to say is “unicorn” to get them back on track. We chose unicorn because it’s the mascot of my daughter’s high school — the only one in the country to honor the mystical creature!

Carson McCafferty, MSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, CSRN
Eye 35 ASC
Schertz, Texas
[email protected]

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