Implementation of an electronic documentation system using microsystem and quality improvement concepts.

Electronic documentation systems have become integral to improving the quality of healthcare, reducing medical errors, and advancing the delivery of evidence-based medical care. A smooth transition from paper charting to an electronic documentation system is challenging. Using quality improvement tools and building on the clinical microsystems concept can assist with a smooth transition. Specific strategies include involving all stakeholders in the development and implementation of the plan, assessing the culture of the department, and identifying processes and patterns that require attention. Specific steps include developing a statement of aim, formulating a specific path to reach the aim, evaluating the progress of implementation, and creating a template for future process improvement. This article describes the process used in one midwestern NICU to implement an integrated electronic documentation system using a clinical microsystems approach and quality improvement methods. Challenges encountered and lessons learned are discussed.

Implementation and case-study results of potentially better practices to improve pain management of neonates.

OBJECTIVE: Collaborative quality improvement techniques were used to facilitate local quality improvement in the management of pain in infants. Several case studies are presented to highlight this process. METHODS: Twelve NICUs in the Neonatal Intensive Care Quality Improvement Collaborative 2002 focused on improving neonatal pain management and sedation practices. These centers developed and implemented evidence-based potentially better practices for pain management and sedation in neonates. The group introduced changes through plan-do-study-act cycles and tracked performance measures throughout the process. RESULTS: Strategies for implementing potentially better practices varied between centers on the basis of local characteristics. Individual centers identified barriers to implementation, developed tools for improvement, and shared their experience with the collaborative. Baseline data from the 12 sites revealed substantial opportunities for improved pain management, and local potentially better practice implementation resulted in measurable improvements in pain management at participating centers. CONCLUSIONS: The use of collaborative quality improvement techniques enhanced local quality improvement efforts and resulted in effective implementation of potentially better practices at participating centers.

Case report of a pressure ulcer in an infant receiving extracorporeal life support: the use of a novel mattress surface for pressure reduction.

This case report describes a 4350-gram male infant of 38 weeks gestation who was placed on extracorporeal life support. On day 4 of life, a large bilateral ecchymotic area involving the scapula and extending to the mid sacral-lumbar-thoracic area was noted, placing the infant at significant risk for pressure ulcer formation. The infant's initial presentation, evaluation, treatment, and response to therapy are discussed. A review of the anatomy and physiology of neonatal skin and the etiology of pressure ulcers is described. The incidence and staging of pressure ulcers is outlined, and high-risk infants and skin zones are identified. Skin care challenges in the patient on extracorporeal life support (ECLS) are outlined, and strategies to assess and treat affected areas are offered. The use of a novel mattress surface for global pressure reduction in the infant undergoing ECLS therapy is discussed.

Implementing potentially better practices for improving family-centered care in neonatal intensive care units: successes and challenges.

OBJECTIVE: Multidisciplinary teams from 11 medical center neonatal intensive care units collaborated in a quality improvement project with a focus on family-centered care. METHODS: Through a process of self-analysis, literature review, benchmarking site visits, and expert consultation, 10 potentially better practice (PBP) areas were defined. Improvement activities in 4 of the 10 areas are given as examples of successes and challenges that individual centers encountered. The 4 areas are vision and philosophy, unit culture, family participation in care, and families as advisors. RESULTS: Centers were at different places for all of the PBPs at the beginning and throughout the collaboration. Seven centers developed or revised their vision or philosophy of care statements about family-centered care. Incorporating the vision and philosophy of care into performance appraisals, hiring of new personnel, and changing unit culture to a more family-centered practice were more challenging than developing the statements. Full parent participation in care requires unrestricted access to the neonatal intensive care unit. The shift from considering parents to be "visitors" to being partners in caring for their child was more difficult for centers with restricted visitation policies. All centers developed, expanded, or started plans for establishing family advisory councils. The experience of 2 centers is described. CONCLUSIONS: Family-centered care is more of a journey than a destination. Collaborating centers in this project found themselves at different places in that journey. Through perseverance in implementing the PBPs, all have moved further along the path.