A model for increasing patient safety in the intensive care unit: increasing the implementation rates of proven safety measures.
Evaluating the impact of quality and safety interventions is an evolving science. While some have argued for a new paradigm in the field, others have advocated for standards similar to clinical trials. This study developed a comprehensive approach and model to increase prophylaxis against venous thromboembolic disease, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and stress ulcers in a single intensive care unit. The model included adoption of tools that promoted team communication, prompts to providers to address the evidence-based measures on a daily basis, and a data wall to provide real-time feedback. The authors provide a detailed description of their efforts that achieved near 100% target goals and advocate for this approach in creating successful microsystems that benefit from their refined Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology.