ICU Team Embraces Change with Lumeo Implementation
In December 2024, Quinte Health launched the Lumeo Regional Health Information System, a transition that brought a mix of excitement and apprehension for our frontline teams.
Lumeo is designed to enhance patient care, creating seamless communication and collaboration among its six partner organizations: Brockville General Hospital, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Lennox and Addington County General Hospital, Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital, Providence Care, and Quinte Health.
Implementing a new system requires a steep learning curve, disruptions to work routines, and time to adapt to new processes in real time while providing patient care. Some roles have been more significantly impacted than others, requiring ongoing focused support and adaptation well beyond the first month of implementation.
Our teams at Quinte Health have faced the many challenges and frustrations of onboarding the new system with remarkable teamwork and perseverance. One unit shared their reflections on their Lumeo implementation journey:
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is well-versed in managing change and complexity. Through resilience, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to patient care, the team has transformed this massive change into an opportunity for growth and improvement.
From Anxiety to Action
ICU Manager Shelley Kay reflected on the initial apprehension surrounding Lumeo’s launch. “Like all units, we faced anxiety and dread,” she said. “But our team thrives on adaptability, and our focus has always been on patient care. No matter the challenges, our priority was ensuring patients received the best care possible.”
During the launch weekend in early December, the ICU team embraced the transition with determination. “Everyone jumped in, balancing their nerves with a focus on patient needs,” said Krista Nicol, Professional Practice Specialist for the ICU team. “We prioritized patients first and addressed system issues afterward. The willingness to ask questions, report concerns, and collaborate made all the difference. Despite any challenges, everyone continued to treat each other with kindness and respect.”
Key Benefits Transforming Care
Despite the learning curve, the team quickly began to see the advantages of the Lumeo system.
The ability to access shared patient information across departments and hospitals was a game-changer. “There’s no longer any question about a patient’s history, interventions, or outcomes,” noted Emma Holmes, Patient Care Lead. “This has led to safer transitions and more appropriate care.”
Other staff members highlighted additional benefits, including streamlined patient transfers, timely order verification from the pharmacist, real-time updates across sites, and improved collaboration among multidisciplinary teams.
A Team United
One of the most inspiring aspects of the implementation has been the sense of camaraderie it fostered among the ICU team. “Everyone has supported each other,” said Jessie Price, Clinical Resource Nurse. “It has brought us closer, knowing we are all in the same boat and working through it together.”
Emma echoed this sentiment, sharing how the team’s shared learning experience has strengthened bonds. “The teamwork between nurses, unit communication clerks, physicians, and respiratory therapists has been fantastic. We’re constantly learning from each other, not just about the functionality of the system but also tips and tricks to make it easier to navigate.”
The ICU staff also expressed gratitude for the support provided during the transition. “The ‘at-the-elbow’ support was amazing,” Shelley said. “They helped us through the rough patches, and we built great relationships with them.”
While there are still improvements to be made, the ICU team remains optimistic. “We’re not just identifying challenges; we’re bringing forward ideas to make the system better for staff and patients,” Shelley explained. “Finding out new ways to do things is always an exciting win and we will continue to improve, grow, and discover ways to make things better for everyone.”
#Connection
#StrongerTogether
