Quality improvement Flashcards
What is quality improvement?
The application of a systematic approach that uses specific techniques to improve quality
What is a system?
Interdependent group of items, people, or processes working together toward a common aim
What are ways to think about what can be improved in a system?
Don’t be complacent ie think ‘its always been like that’
Consider different perspectives such as of users
Look at the system as a whole and not just your own area
Why is it important to view the system as a whole when considering improvements?
Give you a better idea of changes required
Changes made without considering other areas may have knockon effects for thos eareas
What is a complex system?
System that doesn’t give reproducible results
What is the 3 step improvement framework for scotlands public services?
1 - change the world - vision, aim, context
2 - create conditions - culture, capacity, challenge
3 - Make the improvement - implementation and measurement
What are the 6 steps in creating conditions for improvement?
1 - Set an agreed aim
2 - Consider if you’re making the correct changes
3 - Does everyone know and understand the method?
4 - Can change be measured
5 - Are people and resources deployed in best way to enable improvement
6 - Spread the plan
What is the model for improvement?
Plan
Do
Study
Act
What needs to be considered for measures for improvement?
Do you have baseline data?
Do you have a starting point for measurement?
If you have no baseline can you gather a weeks data?
Is there an evidence base for the change?
Can you get the data and if not should you go ahead?
What is the purpose of PDSA (Plan do study act)?
Test small changes for quality improvement quickly - can’t be too small but can be too big
What is a PDSA ramp?
Numerous PDSA cycles leading to progressive change by learning from the data
What does effectiveness refer to?
Reflects concerns in unwarranted variations in care
What does efficiency refer to?
Reflecting concerns about limited resources in the face of new treatment possibilities
What does equity refer to?
Reflecting concerns about matching care to need and ensuring a ‘fair’ distribution of limited resources
What are advantages to using a patient centred practice?
Better clinical safety Decreased mortality Improved staff experience and morale Lower operating costs Shorter length of stay Reduced malpractice claims
