Using Continuous Improvement and HRO Principles to Create a High-Performing Nursing Unit
Northwest Hospital transformed its lowest-performing inpatient unit using continuous improvement and High Reliability Organization (HRO) principles. This session highlights how structured problem-solving, leader engagement, and real-time data monitoring led to a 31% reduction in falls, elimination of CLABSI and CAUTI, and improved patient satisfaction. Learn how the VALUE methodology, staff-driven process enhancements, and cross-department collaboration created a sustainable, high-performing nursing unit. Attendees will gain actionable insights into embedding reliability and resilience into daily operations for lasting improvements in patient safety and experience.
Tool:The VALUE Methodology, based on DMAIC, is a structured continuous improvement approach used to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. It focuses on validating issues, analyzing data, learning root causes, updating processes, and embedding enhancements to drive sustainable improvements in safety, quality, and patient experience within healthcare settings.
Problem:This initiative aimed to address low patient satisfaction, high fall rates, hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), and prolonged length of stay (LOS) in Northwest Hospital's 3A/3B unit. With low HCAHPS scores, high clinical incidents, and inconsistent adherence to safety protocols, the project sought to improve patient outcomes, safety, and staff engagement.
Tool Selection:The VALUE Methodology was chosen for its simplification of DMAIC , data-driven approach to problem-solving. It effectively identifies root causes, implements targeted solutions, and sustains improvements. By integrating HRO principles, it enhances patient safety, standardizes processes, and fosters continuous improvement, making it ideal for improving outcomes and staff engagement.
Usage:The VALUE Methodology was used to systematically improve patient safety and experience. The team validated key issues through data analysis, analyzed root causes, learned from staff and patient feedback, updated processes, leadership rounding, and enhanced sustainability through continuous monitoring, ensuring lasting improvements in care quality and efficiency.
Results:The initiative achieved a 31% fall reduction, eliminated CLABSI and CAUTI, improved HCAHPS scores (68.7%), and reduced length of stay. Success relied on VALUE Methodology, leader rounding, standardized work, and real-time data monitoring. Barriers like staff resistance, sustainability, and resource constraints were overcome through engagement, workflow integration, and cross-department collaboration.
Speakers
Director, Operational Excellence - Lifebridge Health, Northwest Hospital
Nurse Manager - Lifebridge Health, Northwest Hospital
Patient Experience Manager - Lifebridge Health, Northwest Hospital
Executive Director, Patient Care Services - Northwest Hospital
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Performance and Process Improvement
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Location Virtual
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Organizer NAHQ Next
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