Implementing TeamSTEPPS in a Shanghai COVID-19 Quarantine Center for Medical Observation to Enhance Interprofessional Attitude and Skills Regarding Teamwork

Objective: To improve the cooperation efficiency of an anti-epidemic team and achieve infection control and safety management in an observation site by implementing the TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies &Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety Course) program. Methods: There were 41 staff members from hospitals, the district government, a health supervision institute, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, public security, and hotels who participated in this program. The course was taught by a master trainer certified by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The project was evaluated by the Kirkpatrick Model which Including Level 1-reaction assessment (participants satisfaction), Level 2-learning assessment (team work attitude and cognition level), Level 3-behavior assessment (TeamSTEPPS tools and strategies using in workplace) and Level 4- results assessment (infection rate of isolation personnel and staff, incidence of safe adverse events, satisfaction of TeamSTEPPS practice in work). Results: After training and implementation of the TeamSTEPPS program, participants’ attitudes, perception, knowledge, and skills regarding teamwork, team structure, leadership, situation monitoring, mutual support, and communication had significantly increased (P < 0.01). Participants' satisfaction with the course was 99.02% and the application of TeamSTEPPS tools was effective. The actual application satisfaction of staff was 100%. Until now, the infection rate and the incidence of safety adverse events in this observation site were 0%. Conclusion: The TeamSTEPPS program is an effective strategy to improve interprofessional teamwork at the observation site, which contributes to safe COVID-19 management.