My journey with NatSSIPS 2

Summary

In this reflective blog, Chris Elston describes his experience of helping to implement the National Standards for Safer Invasive Procedures (NatSSIPs 2) within an NHS Trust. Drawing on personal experiences of working in operating theatres, he recounts how the project was marked by confusion over changing terminology, slow progress, unclear governance processes, and difficulties identifying procedures, staff, and training needs. A key turning point was establishing an Invasive Procedures Committee to provide oversight and support.

Although the new checklists have now been finalised and are being tested, he remains uncertain whether NatSSIPs 2 offers significant safety benefits beyond the simpler WHO Surgical Safety Checklist. Ultimately, he reflects on lessons learned about patience, collaboration, and the importance of clear, centralised document control systems in supporting patient safety improvements.