Assessment of Patient Satisfaction With Inpatient Services Provided at an Acute Care Facility: A Quality Improvement Project.

Hospitals across the United States use patient satisfaction surveys to assess the quality of inpatient and outpatient services provided to patients when they interact with the healthcare system. Results from this survey are used as input to identify weaknesses in the system with the intention of providing appropriate intervention. Here, we report the results of the quality improvement project completed in an acute healthcare facility. Patient satisfaction was evaluated based on indices established by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS). Responses from 400 patients admitted into the hospital between July 2022 and June 2023 were obtained using a pre-designed questionnaire prepared by HCAHPS on behalf of Prime Healthcare Services. Indices of assessment include doctor-patient interaction, nurse-patient interaction, hospital responsiveness to patient needs, hospital environment, communication about medicine, discharge information, transition of care, overall assessment, and willingness to recommend. The best hospital performance was seen in the dissemination of discharge information, while the worst performance was noted in the transition of care and communication about medicine. Appropriate recommendations were made to improve on these weak areas.

Polyarteritis Nodosa With Complications: A Diagnostic Challenge and Management Dilemma.

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare autoimmune vasculitis characterized by the inflammation of medium-sized arteries throughout the body. This case report presents the clinical course of a 48-year-old female patient who experienced a complex diagnostic journey and complications during the management of PAN. The patient initially presented with dry skin, rash, and pruritus, which led to an extensive evaluation. Despite multiple visits and investigations, the definitive diagnosis of PAN was delayed. Eventually, the patient was diagnosed with PAN based on skin biopsy findings demonstrating vasculitis and inflammation of blood vessel walls. The treatment course was further complicated by the development of steroid-induced diabetes and recurrent vasculitis symptoms. Recurrence of symptoms, including rashes and neuropathy, necessitated adjustments in therapeutic interventions. This case highlights the challenges encountered in managing both PAN and its associated complications and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and improved patient compliance to optimize treatment outcomes.