Factors Influencing the Implementation and Sustainability of 5S in Clinical Departments: A Study at a Private General Hospital in Vietnam

Objective To describe the results of 5S implementation and analyze factors affecting the results of 5S implementation in the clinical departments of the private general hospital. Research methods This study used a mixed-method design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative method was based on 84 observations with checklist in four of 5S implementation areas: Injection carts, medicine cabinets, offices, and patient rooms across seven clinical departments. The qualitative method included 15 in-depth interviews and 2 focus group discussions with representatives from hospital leadership, departments, and staff. The research was conducted at a Private General Hospital in Vietnam, 2024. Results The average score for 5S implementation in the clinical departments was 3.49/5. The average scores for the implementation of the steps were: S1 (Sorting) 3.78/5, S2 (Setting in order) 3.62/5, S3 (Shining) 3.92/5, S4 (Standardizing) 3.20/5, and the lowest was S5 (Sustaining) 2.96/5. Several factors influence the successful implementation and maintenance of 5S, including leadership commitment; active staff participation; regular training; supervision and appropriate reward mechanisms Conclusion To improve the implementation and sustainability of 5S, hospitals need to focus on raising awareness and forming habits of maintaining 5S through training, supportive supervision, and reasonable incentive mechanisms.