A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research examined quality improvement and surveillance approaches in ambulatory settings.
Researchers invited 665 ASCs in 47 U.S. states to implement surgical safety checklists and infection control practices. Centers participated in recruitment, project development, content development and delivery, clinical subject matter expertise, data analysis and facility coaching.
Researchers discovered the rate of ASC quality collaboration outcome measures was low in the first two cohorts (53 and 109 facilities, respectively). Facilities in the cohorts averaged 0.03 percent each for wrong site, side, patient, procedure, as well as implant, patient fall, and patient burn and 0.06 percent for hospital transfer/admission. Researchers experienced many barriers concerning implementation and data collection.
Researchers concluded, "The increasing number of patients being cared for in ASCs makes it essential to better understand how to implement quality improvement projects in that environment. Tailoring interventions to the ASC’s unique needs is necessary."
