Use of a Total Quality Management Model to Reduce Pressure Ulcer Prevalence in the Acute Care Setting

Abstract

In Brief As the population ages and becomes more frail, pressure ulcer prevalence and incidence within specific care settings are being evaluated through outcomes review. This article summarizes the process and outcomes of an ongoing prevalence study at a 300-bed acute care community hospital. All patients on the adult medical, surgical, and critical care units were examined regularly by the “Rear Admirals,” a team comprising a skin care resource person and a nursing unit representative. The Total Quality Management model, characterized by the phrase “Plan-Do-Check-Act,” was used to address barriers to quality care. Findings during that time prompted changes in policies, products, protocols, work assignments, and documentation tools. The outcomes achieved demonstrate the effectiveness of those strategies. After implementation of the Total Quality Management model at our institution, the prevalence of patients with nosocomial pressure ulcers was reduced by 83%. A description of a successful quality management project, managed by an ET nurse, that led to significantly fewer nosocomial pressure ulcers in this health care facility.