37 Improving the Management of Post-Operative Hypocalcaemia in Thyroid Surgery

Abstract Introduction Hypocalcaemia is a frequent, and potentially dangerous, complication of total thyroidectomy [1, 2]. This quality improvement (QI) project was undertaken in large ENT department the East England over year. The improved postoperative guideline compliance by optimising recognition management patients at risk hypocalcaemia. process focussed on improving parathyroid hormone (PTH) calcium blood testing, appropriate prescribing monitoring Method Following baseline audit QI subsequently involved introduction new intraoperative PTH pathway amendment trust guidelines. In addition, there focus clinician awareness guidelines, junior doctor education, communication between operating surgeons doctors optimisation patient handover. Results measurement four hours from 42.5% to 52.2%. saw significant hypocalcaemia (from 22.2% 83.3% for with an intermediate hypocalcaemia) prophylactic supplements 7.5% 43.5%. Conclusions By care this safety as well impacting duration, overall cost, inpatient stay.