III. Quality Improvement and Safety (AACN, 2011)
Quality improvement is an aspect of APRN practice that is ever evolving. Essential three focuses on the skills and methods an APRN must possess to change practice for the greater good of the patient. The
master’s-prepared nurse will be able to monitor, analyze, and prioritize outcomes that
need to be improved. Using quality improvement and high reliability organizational
principles, these nurses will be able to quantify the impact of plans of action (AACN, 2011, p.13). I was able to meet essential three by analyzing patient quality satisfaction scores through doing a data dive. I was able to use case studies and knowledge on certain topics such as encopresis and translate my knowledge into nursing practice. I believe knowledge is power and the APRN should always be thinking about initiatives to help improve clinical practice
First, I met essential three by doing a deep data dive into patient satisfaction scores among three hospitals in my hometown of Northeast, Tennessee. When reviewing the surveys, I was able to identify key items such as issues with nurse-to-patient ratios, medication teaching, cleanliness, and communication among hospital staff. Through doing the deep data dive, I was able to break down the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital. By recognizing a hospital's pitfalls, growth can start to develop to transform hospital policy and quality improvement measures.
Deep Data Dive
Next, I reflected on one of the most impactful experiences I had in the MSN program. During my specialty rotations at the Tri cities St. Jude's Affiliate Clinic, I was able to learn about the different treatment road maps for the multiple forms of childhood leukemia and lymphomas. I learned how to order and dose chemotherapy based on these road maps. Through studying the patient's labs and response to treatment, I was able to use my critical decision-making skills to decide if the patient's immune system was stable for treatment. I was able to diagnosis the reason for iron deficiency anemias in children and on other hematology disorders such as sickle cell, factor deficiencies, clotting disorders, and hemophilia disorders. This rotation prepared me on what clues to look for before sending a hematology referral. I was able to meet essential three by completing this case study on limps. After doing my rotation at St. Jude's clinic, I came to realize just how many ALL patients present with a painful, sudden limp.
Journal Entry
Competency of this essential was met through doing an issues assignment on encopresis. Working in pediatric gastroenterology, I have vast experience with this topic. As a masters prepared nurse, I wish to possess the skills and knowledge to prepare me in my future role in clinical practice as an PNP. Having knowledge on this topic will help me be able to prevent further negative health outcomes.
Encopresis PowerPoint
Lastly, in this presentation on pediatric hypertension recommendations were made to the pediatric patient concerning the recognition and treatment of hypertension. The masters prepared nurse is at the forefront of providing AAP recommendations and treatment options to the pediatric patient and family. Patient education is such an important aspect of providing excellent patient care. Education provides the framework for quality improvement and increases patient safety measures.
Pediatric Hypertension
Strengths
&
Weaknesses
My strengths in this essential include my proven knowledge that I have gained during my program. This possessed knowledge will carry over into clinical practice to create better patient outcomes. The APRN must be willing to learn new things and adjust to the ever-changing healthcare climate. Education is power and with further advancements in leadership and through evidenced based practice better outcomes will ensue for patients.
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My weaknesses include sometimes not feeling competent in my abilities as a future APRN. Competency is an important virtue for the young APRN to possess and with continued education and clinical practice comes forth wisdom and confidence. Continual learning and being abreast of national patient safety resources, initiatives, and regulations is imperative as a practitioner.