Describe      the quality improvement process and the Quality model that will be used as      a basis for the practice problem.

Improve Quality Process

As a basis for the problem, we will use the Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle (PDSA). The model allows for continual improvement and adjustments based on each cycle’s results. The PDSA Cycle consists of 4 stages: Plan, Do and Study. In the planning phase, the issue is defined and goals and strategy are created. In the implement stage, the plan will be implemented. Data is collected in the study phase and then analyzed for the purpose of determining the efficacy of the plan. The cycle is then restarted by making adjustments based upon the findings of the study phase.

A Fishbone Diagram will be used to facilitate the implementation the PDSA Cycle. The tool allows the PDSA cycle to be used for identifying potential problems and their causes. The Fishbone Diagram allows the team to identify possible causes for inaccurate ESAS data, like ineffective communication between patients and staff, or a lack thereof. These potential causes can then be identified and specific strategies developed to combat them in the PDSA Cycle.

The PDSA cycle was chosen because of its effectiveness, especially in health care settings. These tools have been shown to improve patient outcomes, and increase the efficiency of the care delivery process in numerous studies (Institute for Healthcare Improvement 2021; Langley, et al. 2009). Fishbone diagrams have been employed in quality improvement projects in relation to the management of symptoms in hospice patients. They are therefore relevant for this project.

Conclusion:

The PDSA cycle will also be used to help address the problem with inaccurate ESAS collection data in hospice care. It is well documented that these tools are effective and offer a framework to improve and adjust based upon the results from each cycle. These tools, in combination with the evidence-based practices found in the literature, should improve the care given to hospice patients, leading to better outcomes for the patient and greater satisfaction.