APPLYING PROJECT MANAGEMENT APPROACHES FOR A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PRACTICE GAP
Briefly describe the quality improvement practice gap you identified in your nursing practice or organization. Be specific.
Develop at least two SMART objectives you might apply in the project planning phase or execution phase to address the quality improvement practice gap you identified.
Recommend at least two project management activities you would use for your project, addressing the quality improvement practice gap you identified. Explain your justification for why these activities would provide the best support. Be specific and provide examples.
Sample Answer
Practice Gap: Inconsistent and incomplete handoff communication during nurse shift changes can lead to information gaps, medication errors, and potential delays in patient care.
SMART Objectives:
- Objective 1: Increase the use of a standardized handoff communication tool (SBAR – Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) by nurses during shift changes by 50% within 3 months.
- Specific: Increase the use of a specific tool (SBAR).
- Measurable: Track the percentage of shift changes utilizing the SBAR tool.
- Attainable: A 50% increase within 3 months is ambitious but achievable with proper training and support.