The pupillometer in practice: identifying and overcoming barriers

Problem: The pupillometer is an assessment tool that provides an accurate assessment of pupil reactivity. It is appropriate for patients who are neurologically impaired due to injury or illness. This tool, available and in use at a local community hospital, has minimal perceived importance in the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (NSICU), due to a disconnect experienced by the staff. The hypothesis was that understanding the pupillometer information was insufficient and that improving the knowledge would increase the perception of usefulness. Method: Conduct a survey to determine the cause of the lack of interest and use of the pupillometer. Once the survey is complete, provide education for the staff based on gaps of knowledge identified in the survey and subsequently re-survey the group. Compare the two surveys to determine if the understanding of the information provided improves with the perceived value of the information. Results: Sixty nurses participated in the study. The responses assisted in identifying causes of resistance to the pupillometer and gaps in the knowledge of the information it provides. This enabled the staff to start to overcome the barriers. Conclusion: The research findings can assist nursing units with conversion of new technology that is met with resistance or a perceived lack of value, when the tool itself is proven to benefit either patient or staff in delivering care.