Table 2 Feedback from multidisciplinary team on use of DEFAULT mnemonic two months post introduction

Positive comments

• Love it

• Helps to ensure vital information is not missed

• Helps nurses who might not have done the respiratory module to check the ventilation more closely

• Good systems overview

• Helps reiterate many plans from ward round

• Works well

• Mnemonic helps easier learning and improves the memory or recall

• Allows for main/key points of care to be addressed on ward round and effective planning

• Gives structure indirectly to staff on discussion or key points and guidance for bedside nurse on ward round

• Addresses the DNAR (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) status formally on a daily basis

Negative comments

• Not comprehensive enough

• Not always adhered to

Areas for suggested development

• Could be a more generic mnemonic so all valuable information is included for all types of patient, that is head, respiratory, orthopedic

• Should include ‘S’ for social issues