Quick Response codes for surgical safety: a prospective pilot study

Background: Surgical safety programs have been shown to reduce patient harm; however, there is variable compliance. The purpose of this study is to determine if innovative technology such as Quick Response (QR) codes can facilitate surgical safety initiatives.

Methods: We prospectively evaluated the use of QR codes during the surgical time-out for 40 operations. Feasibility and accuracy were assessed. Perceptions of the current time-out process and the QR code application were evaluated through surveys using a 5-point Likert scale and binomial yes or no questions.

Results: At baseline (n = 53), survey results from the surgical team agreed or strongly agreed that the current time-out process was efficient (64%), easy to use (77%), and provided clear information (89%). However, 65% of surgeons felt that process improvements were needed. Thirty-seven of 40 (92.5%) QR codes scanned successfully, of which 100% were accurate. Three scan failures resulted from excessive curvature or wrinkling of the QR code label on the body. Follow-up survey results (n = 33) showed that the surgical team agreed or strongly agreed that the QR program was clearer (70%), easier to use (57%), and more accurate (84%). Seventy-four percent preferred the QR system to the current time-out process.

Conclusions: QR codes accurately transmit patient information during the time-out procedure and are preferred to the current process by surgical team members. The novel application of this technology may improve compliance, accuracy, and outcomes.