Interdisciplinary Teamwork and the Power of a Quality Improvement Collaborative in Tertiary Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Issue 2 (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grover, Theresa R.; Pallotto, Eugenia K.; Brozanski, Beverly; Piazza, Anthony J.; Chuo, John; Moran, Susan; McClead, Richard; Mingrone, Teresa; Morelli, Lorna; Smith, Joan R.
• Is Part Of: Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing. Volume 29:Issue 2(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Maternity nursing -- Periodicals; Neonatal nursing -- Periodicals; Maternal health services -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Medical care -- Periodicals; 610.7362
• DOI: 10.1097/JPN.0000000000000102
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0893-2190

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec> <p>Significant gaps in healthcare quality and outcomes can be reduced via quality improvement collaboratives (QICs), which improve care by leveraging data and experience from multiple organizations.</p> <p>The Children's Hospital Neonatal Consortium Collaborative Initiatives for Quality Improvement team developed an infrastructure for neonatal QICs. We describe the structure and components of an effective multi-institutional neonatal QIC that implemented the "SLUG Bug" project designed to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs).</p> <p>The operational infrastructure of SLUG Bug involved 17 tertiary care neonatal intensive care units with a goal to reduce CLABSI in high-risk neonates. Clinical Practice Recommendations were produced, and the Institute of Healthcare Improvement Breakthrough Series provided the framework for the collaborative. Process measures studied the effectiveness of the collaborative structure.</p> <p>CLABSI rates decreased by 20% during a 12-month study period. Compliance bundle reporting exceeded 80%. A QIC score of 2.5 or more ("improvement") was achieved by 94% of centers and a score 4 or more ("significant improvement") was achieved by 35%.</p> <p>Frequent interactive project meetings, well-defined project metrics, continual shared learning opportunities, and individual team coaching were key QIC success components. Through a coordinated approach and committed leadership, QICs can effectively implement change and improve the care of neonates with complex diagnoses and rare diseases.</p> </sec> </abstract>