Assistance in investigative procedures
Category: Investigation Process
The problem identified
The need to improve timeliness and patient experience of undergoing investigations for lung cancer.
The intervention made to change the problem
The lung CNSs now assist in bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy and pleural aspiration procedures on a regular basis. Patients and carers are encouraged to contact the CNS early to report any problems. This enables investigations to be performed regularly with short notice on an ad-hoc basis. This often means patients can undergo a procedure to assist with their diagnosis or to manage a symptom on the same day as their first appointment.
How it changed my practice
This has ensured timely investigations are maintained, reducing the number of hospital visits for patients and avoiding inappropriate admissions. This enables early referral, prompt treatment and enhances communication and support for patients and their carers.