The Good Catch Initiative is an innovative program spearheaded by Catherine Hernandez BSN, RN, CEN, pictured at left, of Gastroenterology/Special Procedures. This initiative emphasizes prevention and safety within the workplace. It identifies and addresses potential hazards that could harm patients, staff, or equipment before they result in incidents. Through timely interventions and corrective actions, staff ensure that risks are mitigated, and safety is maintained.
A “Good Catch” refers to situations where incidents are avoided through proactive intervention, while a “Near Miss” describes events that can cause harm but fortunately did not. Notable examples of Good Catches in the department include the prevention of $14,000 worth of GI equipment damage when a nurse identified improper handling of a scope before it was accidentally processed. This incident was reviewed and addressed during staff huddles and educational sessions as a critical reminder. Another significant Good Catch involved identifying and replacing four hospital wheelchairs with missing rubber protectors, effectively preventing potential injuries and ensuring patient safety.
One of the most impactful aspects of the program is its ability to close the loop on Good Catch reports, ensuring frontline staff see tangible actions taken because of their vigilance. This encourages further reporting and recognizes staff as proactive agents of safety and action. To motivate participation, the initiative incentivizes staff with awards such as the Golden Polyp Trophy and culminates in the prestigious “The Greatest Catch of the Year” trophy for the most outstanding safety intervention.
Plans are underway to expand the Good Catch Initiative hospital-wide in collaboration with the Risk Department, promoting a unified culture of prevention and safety in the workplace. As Catherine repeatedly states, “Prevention is our intention.”