A new e-learning module for the five stages of safe surgery has been launched by the National Clinical Programmes for Anaesthesia, Surgery and Trauma and Orthopaedics. The module is now available on HSeLanD, the health service’s national online learning and development portal.

The new e-learning module has been developed to support the HSE National Policy and Procedure for Safe Surgery, which was updated in 2022. The policy highlights the importance of respecting the five stages of safe surgery, including the checklist process.

The module encourages all staff working within the operating department to ensure that safe surgery guidelines are followed by all team members in order to deliver safe, quality care to patients.

Professor Deborah McNamara, Vice-President, RCSI and Co-Lead for the National Clinical Programme in Surgery, said: “Ensuring that patients are safe when undergoing surgery is a priority for everyone working in operating theatre departments across Ireland. The five stages of safe surgery, built on previous work using the safe surgery checklist, creates a way for the entire multidisciplinary theatre team to work together to ensure safer care. RCSI welcome the development of this e-learning module because for the first time, we have an easily accessible educational tool suitable for use by everyone working in the operating department.” 

The module is mandatory for staff working in operating departments, including nurses, midwives, anaesthesiologists and surgeons. It module takes approximately 45 minutes to complete, is valid for two years and has been awarded 1 CPD/CEU point.

You can access the HSELand e-learning programme here, as well as the Safe Surgery Policy here.