Which outcome measure do you think aligns with your DPI project (Quality Improvement Project)?

Module 1.

DQ 1

Outcome measures are important in showing the value of the Doctor of Nursing Practice’s role in healthcare. A practice-level outcome project that could be used to demonstrate the DNP’s value is the evaluation of the impact of discharge planning on hospital readmissions. Boccuti, Casillas et al. (2018) claim that discharge planning is a key component in reducing hospital readmissions. It also improves patient outcomes. My DPI project, focusing on the reduction of the number of older adults who fall in long-term facilities, uses the rate of long-term facility falls as an outcome measurement. The literature supports that older adults in long-term care settings are at high risk of falls, and the prevention of falls is critical to enhancing patient outcomes (Tzeng, Wu, King, & Li, 2016).

DQ 2

System Migration Theory is a safety theory which can be applied to suggest quality measures that will improve patient safety. The theory proposes that when organizations make changes to their systems or processes, they need to ensure that they do not disrupt the system’s safety features (Carayon, Wetterneck, Rivera-Rodriguez, Hundt, & Hoonakker, 2014). The use of electronic medical records (EHRs) is one quality measure which could increase patient safety. HealthIT.gov (2010) states that EHRs reduce medication errors and improve the safety of patients. The System Migration Theory will be used to create and implement an effective falls prevention program in my DPI, which addresses the reduction of older adult falls.