Continuous Quality Improvement and Plan-Do-Study-Act Model

Continuous Quality Improvement and Plan-Do-Study-Act Model

 

Continuous quality improvement (CQI) is used in healthcare settings to address system issues, as well as improve already functional performances by reviewing differing techniques (Stanhope and Lancaster, 2020). By continuously reviewing performances and how they are done, healthcare professionals can see if and where any improvements can be made. CQI is an examining tool that encourages proactivity rather than reactivity. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model can be used during CQI.

To explain the PDSA model, the concern for obesity in children will be examined.

Plan: Note opportunity and create change (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020). Example: Identifying unhealthy food choices in the public school cafeteria and establishing healthy menu options.

Do: Implement change and initiate a brief study (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020). Example: Assess elective adherence to food changes and monitor BMI.

Study: Study data and results (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020) Example: Analyzing pre and post intervention BMI to determine if the objective is achieved.

Act: Determine if change improves health status (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020). If improvement is noted, use what was learned and restart the PDSA cycle (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020).  If no improvement, restart PDSA with another change (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2020).  Example: The children’s BMI has decreased, while nutritional needs are still being met. Based on intervention, restart the PDSA cycle building off healthier meals in schools.