Implementing a quality improvement initiative for reducing intravenous antihypertensive utilization in the hospital setting: Improving patient outcomes without prolonging hospital stay

Abstract

Background: This project aimed to implement a quality improvement initiative to reduce the utilization of non-indicated intravenous (IV) antihypertensive medications in the hospital setting and evaluate its impact on hospital length of stay. Methods: A quality improvement initiative was conducted at a 500-bed regional hospital to improve management of inpatients with asymptomatic severe hypertension. An algorithm was developed to guide management to minimize the inappropriate use of IV antihypertensives. Educational sessions were conducted with medical providers and nursing staff to promote adherence to the algorithm. Pharmacy records were reviewed to assess the utilization of IV antihypertensive medications. Aggregated length of hospital stay before and after the intervention were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests. Results: The utilization of IV antihypertensive medications was reduced by 47.6% after the intervention, as measured by days of therapy per 1000 patient days (p <0.001). However, the average length of hospital stay did not show a significant difference before and after the intervention (p = 0.094). Conclusions: The implementation of a quality improvement initiative, including an algorithm and education for healthcare staff, successfully reduced the utilization of non-indicated IV antihypertensive medications in the hospital setting. This approach has the potential to improve patient safety and reduce healthcare costs. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effectiveness of this intervention and its impact on patient outcomes.