(27) Nursing Coordination of Multi-Disciplinary Care for Patients with Vascular Anomalies

Title: Nursing Coordination of Multi-Disciplinary Care for Patients with Vascular Anomalies

Abstract : Basis of Inquiry: Patients with vascular anomalies benefit from multi-disciplinary care, which requires effective communication and coordination. However, there is limited published data on nursing coordination and its impact on patient experience.


Purpose: This project aims to highlight the essential role of nursing coordination in the care of multi-disciplinary vascular anomalies patients and to showcase processes that enhance patient experiences.


Methods: Over a three-month period, the flow of the multi-disciplinary vascular anomalies clinic was analyzed through 116 patients, focusing on encounter length, the number of specialists seen, and ultrasound availability. Subsequently, patients requiring targeted medical therapy in hematology vascular anomalies clinic were reported. We also reviewed Press Ganey patient experience surveys to identify areas for improving nursing coordination.

Findings: The average encounter duration was 1.25 hours, with patients seeing approximately 2.3 specialists, and 62% receiving ultrasounds on the same day. Many patients are also undergoing medical management in the hematology clinic, often requiring follow-up visits. Common patient complaints included long wait times, prompting improvements in communication and scheduling by nursing coordinators. The use of cluster scheduling was implemented to decrease wait time. Increased communication between coordinators regarding transition of care of patients from multidisciplinary to HHT to hematology medical vascular anomalies clinic improved the patient experience and navigation of care. These adjustments led to enhanced expectations regarding visit lengths, provider availability, and ultrasound services, resulting in improved patient experiences over time.

Learning Gaps: Gaps exist in nursing practice related to care coordination/navigation and the role of hematology nursing coordinators in managing vascular malformations.

Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to: (1) understand the complexities of coordinating care for vascular anomalies patients; (2) identify areas for improving patient navigation; and (3) appreciate the involvement of hematology in targeted medical therapy.