Global trigger tools

Trigger tools help identify adverse effects and areas for improvement by auditing a small sample of patient notes regularly. This evidence scan signposts published evidence about the benefits and challenges with this approach.

Why is it important?

The global trigger tool is being used throughout the UK and is promoted by campaigns sponsored by the Health Foundation such as Patient Safety First.

This evidence scan was undertaken to identify situations in which it is appropriate to use global trigger tools. It is not the task of this document to identify whether such tools are being used appropriately by NHS organisations and teams.