The Power of The (First) Name: Do name tags for operating room staff improve effective communication and patient safety? A proof-of-concept study from an academic medical center in Germany

Background Effective and reliable communication is the cornerstone of safe communication in the operating room (OR). The OR is one of the most dynamic places in the hospital where multiple disciplines must work together in perfect harmony to ultimately improve patient outcomes. To create familiarity by name regarding constantly changing team members, individual name tagging was implemented in the OR. Methods We analysed the impact of name tagging in the OR in a proof-of-concept study. Name tags (either first or last name), coloured according to the specific department, have been placed on the cap since March 13, 2023. On May 26, 2023, a total of 440 anaesthesiologists, general, visceral, and trauma surgeons, nurses, and service staff were invited to answer an evaluation questionnaire of nine questions. The survey period ended on August 7, 2023. 101 people answered the query which, among other things, asked for overall ratings, compliance, evaluation of specific items as well as positive and negative aspects. Statistical analyses were performed using R. Results Most of the interviewed staff rated the implementation of name tagging positively (median=3.4; scale from 1-5, 1=bad, 5=good). The greatest benefit was seen in communication in general, direct contact with colleagues, and delegation of tasks. Most of the staff (>90 %) adhered to the new project and used it regularly. Negative aspects mentioned included potential loss of sterility, loss of respectability, and environmental impact. Potential for improvement was seen in the bonding method of attachment or in the implementation. Conclusion Individual name tagging in the OR can improve interprofessional communication and is one tool to enhance patient safety by decreasing reservations or intimidations towards previously unknown colleagues. More studies are required to determine long-term effects on patient safety, outcome, or employee satisfaction.