Greg Klaus became involved with AAAM after being approached by the faculty of an AIS 2005/2008 course that was hosted by his institution.
“The AAAM has an important role to play in helping to make the data in your trauma registry as accurate and uniform as possible as we enter injury findings into our trauma registry platforms. Accuracy and data integrity is essential in obtaining high-quality evidence-based treatment guidelines to deliver high-quality care to our patients.”
One of the things he learned coming into the field of Performance Improvement & Patient Safety for a trauma center is that you don’t know what you don’t know.
“Having moved from a clinical position to my current position, my clinical skills helped decipher care processes and identifying clinical issues. Everything else that was involved in this role was learned as I grew into the role. I came into this role with just my clinical background. I received a lot of ‘on-the-job’ training that was specific to my institution. Since that time, I have become certified as a Trauma Registry Specialist and Abbreviated Injury Scale Specialist.”
He moves on to note the advancements in the field, “I think TQIP is going to continue to evolve and become more widespread. The National Trauma Data Standard will also evolve and develop. I think one of the greatest challenges will be to make sure that the quality of data within an institution’s trauma registry and its ultimate submission to the state, regional, and national organizations to provide benchmarking will gain further importance and relevance in the future. We are beginning to see the development of evidence-based guidelines from TQIP and how TQIP-derived data is beginning to impact clinical practice and care in health care institutions.”
Greg reflects on his career thus far, “I have enjoyed my career in nursing. My fondest memory would be delivering a baby – baby didn’t want to wait for anyone! Pretty scary but cool at the same time!”
He advises those interested in pursuing a career in the field, “First and foremost, seek out training and experience in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety activities, even if you are currently at the bedside. The experience will help in your transition. Secondly, brush up on your anatomy and physiology! I thought I had a good handle on it after my undergraduate training. Not so much… A good anatomy reference and the humility to know when to use it was essential. Lastly, find a mentor! You may need to reach outside of your department or institution to find one! Don’t be afraid. Trauma registrars, PI coordinators, and Trauma Program Managers need to be developed and mentored!”
He concludes with little-known facts about himself, “One hobby is reading – mostly adventure, current event, history, and the occasional action novel. I love to cook and eat! One look at my waistline and you know that is true! I’m a member of a Federal Disaster Medical Assistance Team that deployed to Puerto Rico in 2017. Lastly, I’m married with two adolescent children.”